Pregnancy Weight Gain: What’s Expected & How to Manage It

Pregnancy Weight Gain: What’s Expected & How to Manage It

Expert Recommendations from Sound Beginnings Pregnancy Program Providers

Monitoring Weight Gain & Staying Active Tips to work on with your OB and your Sound Pregnancy team

Pregnancy is a time of incredible transformation, both physically and emotionally. One of the most common concerns for expectant mothers is weight gain. How much is really needed, what’s considered healthy, and how to ensure that both mom and baby are getting the right nutrients for optimal growth and development. Understanding the balance of healthy weight gain is key to a strong pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Understanding Recommended Weight Gain

The amount of weight a woman should gain during pregnancy depends on her pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI). General guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggest:

Underweight (BMI < 18.5): Gain 28-40 lbs

Normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9): Gain 25-35 lbs, Twins: 37-54 pounds

Overweight (BMI 25-29.9): Gain 15-25 lbs, Twins: 31-50 pounds

Obese (BMI ≥ 30): Gain 11-20 lbs, Twins: 25-42 pounds

These recommendations ensure that your baby receives adequate nutrition while reducing the risk of complications like gestational diabetes, preterm birth, or excessive postpartum weight retention.

Here is what it looks like in calories:

First Trimester: No extra calories or weight gain is needed. Total weight gain about 1-5lb during this time.

Second Trimester: Requires an average of an extra 340 calories a day, weight gain .5-1lb/week.

Third trimester: Requires an average of an extra 450 calories a day, weight gain is .5-1lb/week.

Here at Sound Medical Weight Loss, we know that healthy weight gain during pregnancy is about providing essential nutrients for your baby while maintaining your own well-being. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods, staying hydrated, and including movement, working alongside your OB and one of our Providers, you can support a smooth pregnancy and recovery. Every woman’s journey is unique, this is where we support you with personal guidance. Curious to know what that might be for you? Schedule a first-time consultation with us to start the conversation. Remember, nourishing yourself means nourishing your growing baby!