How Much Weight is Right?

The first and foremost rule of sensible nutrition is: Don't diet during pregnancy. Medical studies have shown that women need to have an extra 300 calories per day over their pre-pregnancy needs - and they should gain weight during pregnancy.

Suggested Weight Gain During Pregnancy

For a typical woman of average weight-for-height ratio before pregnancy, the suggested weight gain is around 11 to 16 kg (about 20 to 35 lbs). An underweight woman should aim for 13 to 18 kg weight gain. For an overweight woman, the suggested range is 7 to 11 kg. As a precaution, all women should discuss appropriate weight gain and a proper nutritional schedule with their doctors.

Weight Loss After Birth

In the first 3 months of pregnancy, most woman gain only about 1 to 2 kg of weight. After that, the average weight gain is nearly half a kilogram (kg) per week. When the child is born, most women lose 5 to 6 kg immediately after delivery. The extra weight that was put on can generally be lost within a year, with good nutrition and normal activity. Read this article for tips on shaping-up after birth.