Pregnant or Thinking of Becoming Pregnant?

Pregnant or thinking of trying to become pregnant?

You should know that the Institute of Medicine has released new recommendations regarding optimal weight gain during pregnancy. The changes are due to the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity. 1 in 5 women who become pregnant are obese. Research has shown that women who gain within the recommended weight range have fewer complications. Gaining more or less weight than recommended can lead to pregnancy complications. Scientists acknowledge the small weight gains recommended for women with a BMI of 30 or greater (11-20 pounds) will be difficult, but are possible and in the best interest of the health of the baby and the mother. You can review the details of the new guidelines at http://www.iom.edu/?ID=68004

The recommended weight gain for each category of pre-pregnancy BMI is as follows:

• Underweight (< 18.5 kg/m2); total weight gain range: 28 to 40 pounds
• Normal weight (18.5 – 24.9 kg/m2); total weight gain range: 25 to 35 pounds
• Overweight (25.0 – 29.9 kg/m2); total weight gain range: 15 to 25 pounds
• Obese (≥ 30.0 kg/m2); total weight gain range: 11 to 20 pounds

Ideally women should try and attain a BMI in a healthy range prior to conception. For help in reaching this goal or optimizing the amount of weight gained in your pregnancy please contact me for individualized counseling or class requests!

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