QuestionMy doctor told me that because I'm already 50 lbs overweight (BMI = 31), I should try to aim for only 15-20 lbs throughout the entire pregnancy. At my 2nd appointment (12 weeks), I hadn't gained any weight, and then over this past week I've actually lost 2 lbs. I've had no morning sickness, have watched my diet, gotten my vitamins and fiber, and have started a swimming/walking routine a couple of days per week. She told me that because I hadn't gained even a pound, I'm not eating enough. She also said I should eat more fatty foods like olive oil and fish.
My question: How much SHOULD I gain on a month to month basis?
I assumed that with the baby so small, I really wouldn't start gaining until the 2nd trimester. Should I have gained more by now? I've been extra careful because I'm also at high risk for gestational diabetes.
AnswerWe prefer that you gain around 2-3 lbs per month throughout the pregnancy. However, if you are overweight, your doctor is correct in asking you to aim for 15-20lbs for the entire pregnancy. Sometimes, you will not start to gaini much until your second trimester of pregnancy. It is important to gain (and not lose) weight in order to assess fetal growth. The only way to see fetal growth is to see that you are gaining weight.
