What is the appropriate weight gain during pregnancy?
An average weight gain of approximately 25-30 pounds during pregnancy is considered desirable. Women who are underweight however should gain more, while those who are overweight should gain less. The rate of weight gain is as important as the total weight gain, which should be a gradual increase. Aim to gain approximately 3-5 pounds during the first trimester, and 1 pound per week during the second and third trimesters. Inadequate weight gain during pregnancy is associated with a higher incidence of premature infants, and a higher incidence of low birth weight babies.
