How much weight gain during pregnancy is reasonable?

The article was professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor I Pham Thi Yen - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital. Doctor has more than 10 years of experience in examination and treatment in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Weight during pregnancy is not only a reflection of the mother's health, but also the development of the fetus in the uterus. The amount of weight gain during pregnancy is estimated based on the weight of the pregnant woman before pregnancy.

A woman's weight gain during pregnancy depends on many factors, including the weight of the fetus, placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, increased fat, increased tissue and body fluids,... According to the World Health Organization (WHO), weight gain during pregnancy is estimated based on the body mass index (BMI) of the mother before pregnancy. The formula for calculating BMI is as follows:
BMI = weight (kg) / [height x height] (m)

If the mother has a normal weight before pregnancy (BMI about 18.5 - 24.9): the ideal weight gain of the mother is 10 - 12 kg, specifically as follows:
first 3 months (first trimester) ): gain 1 kg in the 2nd trimester (second quarter): 4 - 5 kg increase in the last 3 months (third quarter): 5 - 6 kg increase If the mother is underweight (BMI: <18.5): the weight gain should be about 25% of your pre-pregnancy weight, usually 12.7 - 18.3 kg.
If the mother was overweight or obese before pregnancy (BMI of 25 or more): the ideal weight gain is 15% of the pre-pregnancy weight, usually 7-11.3 kg.
In case the mother is pregnant with twins: should gain about 16-20.5 kg.

Pregnant women should check their weight regularly every month and contact their doctor for advice if they see signs of unusual weight gain or loss.
From the 4th month of pregnancy, pregnant women usually gain about 1.5-2kg per month, if gaining less than 1kg or more than 3kg per month, you need to see a doctor immediately because too much or too little weight gain affects the same. adversely affect the health of both mother and baby. Too much weight gain can lead to the risk of pre-eclampsia, diabetes, increased caesarean section... Too little weight gain can also cause intrauterine growth retardation, fetal malnutrition, increase the rate of premature birth. To have a reasonable weight gain, pregnant women need to pay attention to nutrition. During a normal pregnancy, a mother needs to consume an extra 80,000 Kcal, which means that in 280 days, an average of 285 Kcal more per day is needed. Therefore, the mother must use nutritious foods that do not have too much energy such as soft drinks, junk food, foods that are too greasy, ... Mother should choose nutritious foods, clear origin, ensuring food safety and hygiene. Pregnant women also do not forget to add vegetables and fruits because they are not only rich in nutritional value but also provide essential vitamins and minerals for the formation and development of the fetus. Pregnant women also need to have a reasonable rest, get enough sleep, avoid stress and anxiety. In addition, it is also necessary to limit stimulants such as alcohol, beer, tobacco and hot spicy spices. If you have unusual symptoms, you should be examined and consulted with a specialist.