Kilo counting

• 28–40 lbs if you were underweight in the pre-pregnancy stage
• 25-35 lbs if you were of average weight in the pre-pregnancy stage
• 15-25 lbs if you were overweight in the pre-pregnancy stage
• 35-45 lbs if you were carrying twins

• 7 lb 5 oz – baby weight
• 3 lb 0 oz – of extra blood
• 1 lb 1 oz – breast tissue
• 2 lb 0 oz – for the uterus (womb)
• 1 lb 3 oz – amniotic (sac) fluid
• 1 lb 3 oz – placenta (after-birth)
• 7 lb 7 oz – extra fat
• 2 lb 2 oz – extra body fluid

It usually means that your body is storing excess fat or fluid – and this could complicate your pregnancy and labour. A weight gain of more than 33 lbs in pregnancy is usually followed by a permanent increase in weight, unless a sensible, post-pregnancy diet is planned and followed.

Hopping on the scales

If you do decide to weigh yourself at home, don’t do it too frequently, there is often a marked difference from day to day. Try to standardise how and when you weigh yourself, in order to accommodate the normal daily fluctuations of weight. A rapid weight gain during the last trimester (3 months) needs to be reported to your midwife or doctor – this could be fluid retention and a sign of pre-eclampsia.

Do keep in mind that weight gain recommendations also change often over time. It is more important to pay attention to a healthy diet for both of you than to how much you gain while doing it. Please try to enjoy your pregnancy and your eating – then you’re more likely to enjoy your baby.