Free Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator
Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator
Track your healthy weight gain during pregnancy based on medical guidelines
Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator Pro helps expectant mothers track their healthy weight gain during pregnancy based on medical guidelines from the Institute of Medicine (IOM). The calculator provides personalized recommendations based on pre-pregnancy BMI, current weight, pregnancy stage, and whether the pregnancy is single, twins, or triplets.
Recommended Weight Gain (Singleton Pregnancy)
| Pre-pregnancy BMI | Category | Recommended Total Gain |
|---|---|---|
| < 18.5 | Underweight | 28–40 lbs (≈ 13–18 kg) |
| 18.5–24.9 | Normal weight | 25–35 lbs (≈ 11–16 kg) |
| 25.0–29.9 | Overweight | 15–25 lbs (≈ 7–11 kg) |
| ≥ 30.0 | Obese | 11–20 lbs (≈ 5–9 kg) |
Twin Pregnancy Guidelines
| Pre-pregnancy BMI | Recommended Total Gain |
|---|---|
| Normal weight | 37–54 lbs (≈ 17–25 kg) |
| Overweight | 31–50 lbs (≈ 14–23 kg) |
| Obese | 25–42 lbs (≈ 11–19 kg) |
📈 Trimester-by-Trimester Pattern
- 1st trimester: Only about 1–4 lbs total (0.5–2 kg).
- 2nd & 3rd trimesters: Steady gain of about 1 lb per week (0.4–0.5 kg), depending on BMI.
- Underweight women may need slightly more.
- Overweight/obese women may need less.
Why It Matters
- Too little gain → risk of low birth weight, preterm birth.
- Too much gain → risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, and long-term obesity for both mother and child.
Practical Tips
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods: lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy.
- Avoid “eating for two” — most women only need +300 calories/day in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
- Stay active with safe exercises (walking, swimming, prenatal yoga) unless advised otherwise.
- Regular prenatal checkups help track weight gain and adjust goals.
Key Takeaway
In the U.S., pregnancy weight gain recommendations are personalized based on pre-pregnancy BMI. The goal is not just gaining weight, but gaining the right amount to support both maternal and infant health.