Weight Gain if Overweight Prior to Pregnancy
By Mediconsult's Nutrition Services
Q. I'm overweight. How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?
A. The general recommendation for total pregnancy weight gain for adult women who have a high weight at the time of conception is between 15 and 25 pounds. Women who have a very high weight are encouraged to gain about 15 pounds. Weight gain during the first trimester is usually modest but, beginning in the second trimester, a steady gain of 0.5-to-0.7 pounds per week is encouraged. Women who are less than 5'2" in height should aim for the lower end of the weight gain range.
It is important that you follow your physician's advise, however, since individual needs may vary. Referral to a dietitian for nutritional assessment and guidance may be recommended.
