During the course of pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes numerous transformations, with weight gain being one of the most notable changes. However, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid excessive or insufficient weight gain, as it can negatively impact both the mother and the unborn child. To ensure a healthy delivery, an obstetrician or other qualified healthcare provider closely monitors the weight of an expectant mother throughout her pregnancy.
Understanding Body Mass Index (BMI) during Pregnancy
When it comes to pregnancy, it is crucial to assess your body mass index (BMI) as a starting point for determining a healthy weight gain. BMI is a measurement that calculates the amount of body fat based on your weight and height. Healthcare professionals generally consider a pre-pregnancy BMI ranging from 18.5 to 24.9 as within the healthy range. However, a BMI of 25 or higher is classified as overweight.
As the BMI surpasses the healthy range, the risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy increases. On the other hand, women with lower BMIs within the healthy range tend to have lower chances of encountering pregnancy-related issues, assuming there are no other underlying factors affecting their health.
Factors Affecting Weight Gain Before Pregnancy
Weight gain before and during pregnancy can vary greatly among women. The rate at which weight is gained can differ, and some women may face challenges due to their metabolism or pre-existing weight conditions. It is important to note that the amount of weight a woman should gain during pregnancy depends on her pre-pregnancy weight and body mass index (BMI).
For women who were relatively thin before pregnancy, it may be necessary to gain more weight compared to those who were already overweight. The healthcare provider will take into account the pre-pregnancy BMI and weight of the woman when determining the recommended weight gain on a week-by-week basis.