Weight gain during pregnancy is one of the numerous changes that the expectant mother's body goes through during the 40 week long wait to the arrival of the little baby. Weight gain in pregnancy is essential for the well being of the expectant mother and developing baby alike. Inadequate as well as excessive weight gain during pregnancy has the ability to affect the health of the developing baby and mother to be. The first trimester is the most crucial phase of pregnancy.
This is the formative stage with the basic body structure and the essential organs of the developing baby falling into place. Most pregnancy losses also occur during this time. Hence, every expectant mother must take good care of herself.
At this stage, keeping in mind the wellbeing of the baby, the expectant mother would need to deal with the physical changes that her body will undergo due to the pregnancy without worrying about an increasing waistline or an asymmetrical figure.
The average weight gain during the entire term of pregnancy is 25 to 35 pounds for a woman with average built. For women who were previously underweight, 30 to 40 pounds of weight gain may be essential. Those who were overweight prior to pregnancy would have to ensure that they gain only 11 to 20 pounds during the term. Hence, depending on the need, doctors would recommend a suitable diet and routine to ensure that the expectant mother puts on the needed amount of weight. However, irrespective of pre-pregnancy weight, expectant mothers have to ensure that they consume wholesome meals with a proper blend of various nutrients. Irregular meal timings and skipping of meals should be avoided completely and even thoughts of a crash diet must be shunned. Regular exercise in the form of walking and swimming will prevent excessive weight gain as well keep the mother to be fit and healthy.
During the first trimester, the expectant mother would gain approximately a pound for each month of gestation. Excessive weight gain, besides increasing the risks of pregnancy complications also make shedding of those extra pounds after pregnancy a difficult task. In order to keep a check on the amount of weight gain, keeping a weekly record of weight gain is recommended. This is possible through the use of a pregnancy weight gain chart. These charts help the expectant mother to keep a watch on weight gain and to take counteractive measures in case of excessive weight gain. Similarly, corrective measures for low weight gain can also be taken.
Read more articles from the During Pregnancy Category.
7 Must-Haves Before Your Baby Arrives
Bonding Games for Babies
DIY Baby Bath Towel Apron
Common Late Pregnancy Fears