What To Expect With Pregnancy Weight Gain

What To Expect With Pregnancy Weight Gain

You’re probably wondering if gaining weight during pregnancy is normal. Don’t worry. Pregnancy weight gain is completely normal. A slow and gradual pregnancy weight gain is actually healthy for you and your baby. 

If you’re still worried about pregnancy weight gain, it might be best to talk to an obstetrician to ease your mind. At Gwinnett OBGYN, we’d be happy to answer all your questions and make it as comfortable as we can for you. For the best OBGYN in Snellville, GA, contact Gwinnett OBGYN. 

How Much Weight Should You Gain During Pregnancy?

You can expect to gain anywhere between 25 to 40 pounds during your pregnancy. If you’re carrying twins, triplets, or more, a higher weight gain during your pregnancy is expected. However, this may vary between women, and it is suggested you speak to your doctor to make sure you are gaining a healthy amount of weight during your pregnancy. 

Your pre-pregnancy BMI will serve as a guide on how much weight gain is considered healthy during your pregnancy. However, not all pregnancies are alike. Due to food aversions and morning sickness, some women even lose weight during the first trimester. If you gain weight rapidly during the second and third trimesters, don’t worry. The weight you’re gaining during this period aids in your baby’s development. In your last two trimesters, you’ll gain an average of one pound per week.

Baby Needs The Extra Weight

Those extra pounds are needed to support the baby’s development and health. If a woman doesn't gain sufficient weight during pregnancy, there is a higher risk of preterm birth or a low-birthweight. So the extra weight you’re gaining is healthy for you and your baby (yey!). 

If you’re worried you’re not at the right weight, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Gwinnett OBGYN. We offer the best OBGYN services in Snellville, GA.

Stress Causes More Weight Gain

It is common for women to experience cravings for unhealthy food during pregnancy. This is because of cortisol, a chemical released when experiencing anxiety. It increases a person's appetite and causes them to eat more. So don’t stress about the weight gain; those extra pounds are helping the baby grow. 

Where Does The Extra Weight Go?

Being told to expect a weight increase of up to 40 pounds when newborns weigh around 7 pounds can be confusing. The baby is actually only responsible for 26 percent of a pregnant woman's total weight gain. Pregnancy weight gain covers many things in addition to the baby.

Here’s why you’re gaining weight:

  • 4 pounds of increased fluid
  • 7 pounds of protein, fat, and other nutrient stores
  • 2 pounds of amniotic fluid
  • 4 pounds of added blood volume
  • 1.5 pounds of placenta
  • 2 pounds of breast tissue
  • 2 pounds of uterus tissue

When Do You Stop Gaining Weight In Pregnancy?

During childbirth, you’ll lose approximately 11 pounds. This includes the baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid. This will cause a release of the fluid weight a woman's body retains. Provided you maintain a healthy lifestyle and diet during pregnancy, you’ll quickly lose the extra weight.

For questions at any time during your pregnancy, contact Gwinnett OBGYN in Snellville, GA. We have been helping women in the Atlanta area for over three decades. For the best possible obstetric and gynecologic services, contact us today. We’re excited to guide you in this wonderful journey.

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