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Don't eat for two, and don't get obsessed with the bathroom scales. Dr Howard Lee gives you the lowdown on weight gain in pregnancy
Pregnant women used to be weighed at every antenatal appointment, but research showed that the practice was of little value because it was often inaccurate; so you can heave a sigh of relief, you won't be put through that.
If, however, you are significantly over - or under - weight, you'll be asked to 'stand on the scales' more frequently than other women in your antenatal group.
Weight gain in pregnancy is still a source of great anxiety
Many women worry about putting on too much, and being unable to lose it afterwards, or about not gaining enough, and how this might affect their baby.
Naturally, it is essential, and we (the medical care team) should be concerned if you're not gaining weight, as it could indicate that you are not getting adequate nourishment, and that, in turn, could affect the growth and development of your baby.
Because of this, your doctor or midwife will certainly keep an eye on your weight, while you are pregnant, and they'll also be watching for any sudden increase, which could herald the onset of pre-eclampsia.
For more information about this complication in late pregnancy see my article about pre-eclampsia.
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