MANAGING YOUR WEIGHT DURING PREGNANCY
Beware of gaining too much/not gaining enough weight!
Gaining too much weight during a pregnancy will make you susceptible to pregnancy induced hypertension. However, recent trends have been seeing mothers-to-be that are too slim. It is said that not gaining enough weight will result in not only a smaller infant but also makes you susceptible to lifestyle related diseases. In any case, weight control during gestation is very important.
How much weight gain is normal during pregnancy?
The weight a pregnant woman gains until birth mostly consists of the weight of the infant (fetus), placenta, amniotic fluid and blood. A newborn's average weight is approximately 3 kilograms. It is said that a mother-to-be's body stores up necessary nutrients for birth and breastfeeding during pregnancy as well. In recent time, weight gain calculated according to each individual's pre-pregnancy weight seems to be the most ideal.
Weight gain guidelines according to body type!
The recommended weight gain standard during the entire pregnancy based on body type.
Please remember this is different from Singapore definition. This is based on the Guidelines and Instruction for Maternal and Child Health in Japan.
Body Type
Recommended weight gain
Underweight (thinner): less than BMI 18.5
9 - 12 kg
Normal: more than BMI 18.5 less than 25.0
7 - 12 kg (1)*
Overweight: more than BMI 25.0
To be calculated individually (2)*
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Body type is based on each individual's pre-pregnancy weight.
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BMI=weight(kg)/height(m²)
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For individuals in the "normal" body type category but close to the underweight category, use the area in the lower limit of the recommended weight gain chart as a guideline.
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For individuals who are slightly over BMI 25.0, approximately 5 kg should be your recommended weight gain. Pregnant woman markedly over 25.0 should be consulted individually with clinical states and other risks put into consideration.