Weight gain during pregnancy is natural—and necessary. It supports your baby’s growth and helps prepare your body for childbirth. But how much is healthy? That depends on your pre-pregnancy BMI.
This guide breaks it down week by week, so you can confidently track your progress throughout pregnancy.
📊 Recommended Pregnancy Weight Gain by BMI
| BMI Category | Recommended Gain |
|---|---|
| Underweight (BMI <18.5) | 12.5–18 kg (28–40 lbs) |
| Normal (BMI 18.5–24.9) | 11.5–16 kg (25–35 lbs) |
| Overweight (BMI 25–29.9) | 7–11.5 kg (15–25 lbs) |
| Obese (BMI ≥30) | 5–9 kg (11–20 lbs) |
Tip: Use a BMI calculator before pregnancy to find your category.
📅 Weight Gain by Trimester
| Trimester | Typical Weight Gain |
|---|---|
| First (0–12 weeks) | 1–2 kg (2–4 lbs); minimal due to nausea |
| Second (13–27 weeks) | ~0.5 kg (1 lb) per week; rapid growth |
| Third (28–40 weeks) | Slows down; ~4–5 kg (9–11 lbs) total |
✅ Why Monitoring Matters
Staying within your recommended range supports:
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Healthy fetal development
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Reduced risk of complications
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Easier postpartum recovery
Use a printable weekly chart to track progress, and consult your provider for personalized guidance.
🤖 This article was created with the help of AI and reviewed by a certified maternal health writer for accuracy.
