Plump and healthy: pregnancy and gaining weight
Have you put on weight during your pregnancy? This is no cause for concern – it is normal to gain weight. Read this article to find out more about healthy weight gain.
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Short and simple
The body changes during pregnancy.
The baby is growing.
That is why the mother puts weight on.
Eat healthily and get plenty of exercise.
This is good for both your baby and your health.
After the birth, your weight will slowly drop again.
What is behind the weight gain during pregnancy?
Weight gain does not just depend on the growth of the baby. Various factors are involved, including:
- An increased quantity of blood
- Tissue fluids
- Increased breast volume
- Heavier womb
- Amniotic fluid
- Placenta
- Child
How much weight gain is normal?
| BMI before pregnancy | Recommended weight gain during pregnancy | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMI 18.5 to 24.9, normal weight | 11.5 kg to 16 kg | |||
| BMI < 18.5, underweight | 12.5 kg to 18 kg | |||
| BMI 25 to 29.9, overweight | 7 kg to 11.5 kg | |||
| BMI ≥ 30, obese | 5 kg to 9 kg | |||
| Multiple pregnancies | ||||
| Twin pregnancy | 15.9 kg to 20.4 kg | |||
| Triplet pregnancy | Approx. 22 kg | |||
These figures are only recommendations. If you put on a little more or less, this is usually nothing to worry about. However, if you lose weight over an extended period of time or gain an unusually high amount of weight, you should talk to your gynaecologist.
Not only is controlled weight gain ideal for the mother-to-be’s wellbeing; it is also important for the health of her unborn baby. Being both very overweight (obesity) and very underweight can pose additional risks. This is especially true if the mother gains a very large amount of weight during the pregnancy, as this is associated with the risk of developing gestational diabetes. If the mother does not put on enough weight, she as it risk of suffering from nutritional deficiencies. For that reason, diets should be avoided during pregnancy.
Regular check-ups by a medical specialist
Healthy pregnancy through nutrition and exercise
Being overweight can increase the risk of pregnancy-related complications. Despite this, diets and other weight reduction measures are not recommended for pregnant women as they can lead to a shortage of important nutrients. A balanced diet and regular exercise are the best way to support the baby’s healthy development.
- Only eat when you are really hungry.
- Remember that you are eating for yourself, not for two.
- Eat several portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
- Give preference to wholegrain products.
- Choose low-fat dairy products and meat.
- Drink water or unsweetened tea instead of drinks containing sugar.
- Get regular exercise. Choose activities that are suitable for the pregnancy trimester you are currently in.
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Staying active despite weight gain: exercise during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the mother’s body changes in many different ways. You can actively support these changes. Regular exercise can help to prevent back pain, which can be caused by the weight you gain and the change in your body’s centre of gravity.
Gentle activities like swimming and yoga help to strengthen your muscles and boost your general wellbeing. Make sure you have enough time to recuperate, though, as your body also needs rest during pregnancy.
More weight, more skin – how your body adapts
Losing weight after the birth
The process of losing weight begins with the birth. Initially, you will lose five to seven kilos through the birth of your baby, the delivery of the placenta and the loss of the amniotic fluid. After that, your body will need time to get used to the new situation and lose the remaining kilos it gained.
Be patient – losing weight slowly and continuously is healthier and ensures that you get sufficient quantities of all the nutrients your body needs. These are important for your health and that of your newborn, especially if you are breastfeeding. Not only does breastfeeding have numerous benefits for your baby; it also helps you to lose weight.
Which benefits are covered by your health insurance for maternity?
