How Much Weight Gain Is Ideal During Pregnancy?

Why Should Pregnant Women Monitor Their Weight?

During pregnancy, a mother’s body naturally gains weight. This is normal—and even necessary—as the additional weight supports fetal development, breast milk production, and prepares the body for childbirth.

However, weight gain during pregnancy should still be monitored. Gaining too little weight can risk undernourishment for the baby, while excessive weight gain can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.

How Much Weight Gain Is Ideal During Pregnancy?

According to recommendations by the WHO and the Indonesian Ministry of Health, ideal weight gain during pregnancy depends on the mother's pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI):

• Underweight mothers (BMI below normal):
  Recommended total weight gain is 12.5 to 18 kilograms.

• Normal weight mothers:
  Ideal weight gain is around 11.5 to 16 kilograms.

• Overweight mothers:
  Should aim for 7 to 11.5 kilograms of weight gain.

• Obese mothers:
  Weight gain should be limited to 5 to 9 kilograms throughout the pregnancy.

Weight Gain Distribution by Trimester

Weight gain is typically divided into stages based on the pregnancy trimester:

First Trimester (0–13 Weeks)

Only about 1 to 2 kilograms of weight gain is expected, as many mothers experience nausea and vomiting (morning sickness).

Second Trimester (14–27 Weeks)

Weight gain increases more rapidly, approximately 0.4 to 0.5 kilograms per week, as appetite usually improves.

Third Trimester (28–40 Weeks)

Weight gain remains steady at about 0.4 to 0.5 kilograms per week, continuing up to delivery.

What Causes Weight Gain During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy weight gain isn’t just from the baby. It also comes from:

• Fetal growth

• Amniotic fluid

• Placenta

• Increased blood volume

• Fat reserves

• Enlargement of the uterus and breasts

All of these changes are essential for childbirth and breastfeeding preparation.

Tips to Maintain a Healthy Weight During Pregnancy

To keep your weight gain within a healthy range, consider these tips:

• Eat a balanced and nutritious diet

• Include plenty of vegetables, fruits, and fiber-rich foods

• Avoid overly sweet or fatty foods

• Stay hydrated with enough water

• Stay active with light exercises like walking

• Visit your midwife or OB-GYN regularly

Safe Pregnancy Consultation at Bidan Anggraeni Linda

We are here to support expectant mothers in monitoring weight and fetal development optimally.

✅ Nutrition and healthy eating education
✅ Ideal weight gain monitoring
✅ Pregnancy nutrition & birth preparation counseling

📍 Bidan Praktik Mandiri Anggraeni Linda
Jl. Soekarno Hatta, Gg. H. Hasan 2 No.9, Bandung
📞 +62 856-5929-8380