Weight gain during pregnancy: how to manage it well?

Contents

01
What is the ideal weight gain during pregnancy?
02
Weight gain to be assessed on a case-by-case basis
03
What is mummyrexia?
04
In conclusion

What is the ideal weight gain during pregnancy? Is it the same for every woman? Should I watch my weight whilst pregnant? What is mummyrexia? Answers from Dr Chicheportiche, nutritionist doctor.

Take care mama

Weight gain should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Do not set yourself unachievable goals. Not gaining weight can be very dangerous for you and your baby.

What is the ideal weight gain during pregnancy?

According to the National Nutrition and Health Programme (PNNS) published by the French health authorities, weight gain should average 12 kilograms during pregnancy, corresponding to roughly 1 kg per month during the first six months and 2 kg per month during the last trimester.

This weight gain reflects both the development of the elements involved in conception (the foetus, but also the placenta and amniotic fluid) and the adaptation of the maternal body to pregnancy (increased blood volume, as well as breast and uterine development). This weight gain is therefore necessary to carry the pregnancy in the best possible conditions — for both the baby and the mother!

Of the weight you gain during pregnancy, there is [1]:

~3 kg of fluids

~3–3.6 kg from your baby

~0.5kg of placenta

~1kg of uterus

~3 to 5 kg of reserves

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Weight gain to be assessed on a case-by-case basis

This ideal weight gain during pregnancy should take into account your Body Mass Index. Indeed, the higher your Body Mass Index, the lower your weight gain should be.

It is therefore important to discuss this with your doctor. Based on your BMI and your personal history, you will jointly define the weight gain target and the steps to take to achieve it.

What is mummyrexia?

Be aware of a new trend promoted by certain celebrities, widely shared by the press and social media, called « mummyrexia » (a blend of "mummy" and "anorexia") aimed at maintaining one's figure at all costs, or even avoiding any weight gain during pregnancy.

What does this look like in practice? Voluntary food restriction combined with excessive physical activity. Exercise and pregnancy are however recommended, but within reasonable limits.

These are symptoms found in anorexia nervosa. The risks are significant for both the mother and her baby, ranging from multiple nutritional deficiencies to premature birth.

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In conclusion

It is normal normal to gain some weight during pregnancy — speak to your doctor to determine your ideal weight gain.

Pregnancy food challenge

Our step-by-step advice for your diet during pregnancy

What is the ideal weight gain during pregnancy?

Author

Dr Alexandra Chicheportiche-Ayache

Nutritionist doctor specialising in perinatal health and women's health

A nutritionist doctor specialising in perinatal health and women's health, Dr Chicheportiche-Ayache excels in the field of micronutrition and preventive nutrition. She supports women at every stage of their lives — from conception to motherhood, through hormonal balance — offering personalised and tailored guidance.