Weight gain is an important part of pregnancy. It can also be a confusing and emotional topic.
When gaining weight during a pregnancy, you are not just gaining the weight of the baby but the weight of all the structures that help you become a mum. This includes things like the growing uterus, amniotic fluid, placenta, increased blood volume and important fat deposits to name a few.
The guidelines by the Institute of Medicine regarding gestational weight gain provide you the opportunity to find out your estimated ideal weight gain. See the calculation below!
Calculation
Step 1
The first step in using the guidelines is figuring out your BMI. Pop your weight and height into a BMI calculator. I use the Heart Foundation BMI calculator.
Step 2
To find your Institute of Medicine weight gain recommendations for pregnancy, examine the table below. Find your pre-pregnancy BMI category, the total weight gain is the estimated amount of weight that aims to optimize outcomes for the woman and the infant. It is important to know these numbers are for single gestation pregnancies (not twins or higher order gestations).
It’s important to remember that BMI is not the most reliable measure of whether your weight is in a healthy range for your height. It’s not a good overall indicator of how healthy you are, and doesn’t take into account important factors like age, gender and body composition (fat, muscle and bone). Speak to your GP or Health Practitioner for individual advice.
Nonetheless, a healthy pregnancy weight gain contributes to short- and long-term health outcomes. It can be really challenging to meet the recommended amount of healthy weight gain and know if the guideline applies to you, so it is best to get help from your healthcare team.
This is general information only and should not replace medical advice. Please book in with your medical or allied health professional for tailored advice.
Lisa Moffatt
Physiotherapist - Women's and Pelvic Health
I believe every Aussie mum deserves the knowledge and tools to feel strong, confident, and in control of their body. Too often, women are told that issues like incontinence and postnatal pain are just “part of being a mum”—but that’s simply not true.
I’m on a mission to break the silence around pelvic health by sharing my expertise for free, so mums can get the support they deserve. Through education, community, and open conversations, I want to empower women to take charge of their health and well-being.
Canberra Physio & Pilates. All Rights Reserved.