Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and C-sections. Conversely, gaining too little weight can also pose risks, including premature birth and low birth weight.
The recommended weight gain during pregnancy varies depending on a woman’s pre-pregnancy weight. For women of average weight, the recommended weight gain is between 25 to 35 pounds. Women who are overweight or obese should aim to gain less weight, around 15 to 25 pounds. Underweight women may need to gain more weight, around 28 to 40 pounds.