Looking after yourself and your baby
How much weight should I gain?
The weight you should aim to gain will depend on what your body mass index (BMI) was before you became pregnant. Use this tool to calculate your BMI.
Your BMI is the number used to work out your recommended amount of weight gain.
Pre-pregnancy BMI | Recommended total gain | Weekly guide in 2nd and 3rd trimester |
Less than 18.5 kg/m² | 12½ to 18kg | 1/2 kg per week |
18.5 to 24.9 kg/m² | 11½ to 16kg | 400g per week |
25 to 29.9 kg/m² | 7 to 11½ kg | Less than 300g per week |
Above 30 kg/m² | 5 to 9kg | Less than 300g per week |
Pregnancy Weight Gain charts
You may find it easier to follow a pregnancy weight gain chart. The charts are divided in two groups:
- Pregnancy weight gain chart for BMI less than 25kg/m2
- Pregnancy weight gain chart for BMI 25kg/m2 or over.
More information: How much weight should I gain while pregnant.
In this guide:
- Healthy eating during pregnancy
- How much weight should I gain?
- Food Safety in pregnancy
- Exercise during pregnancy
- Perineal massage
- Medications, alcohol, and smoking during pregnancy
- Vaccinations during pregnancy
- Infections and precautions in pregnancy