Weight gain in the trimesters of Pregnancy

The First Trimester

In the first trimester of pregnancy you may not see that much change to your weight, as weight gain will come about gradually. Some women even lose weight during the first trimester due to morning sickness and vomiting throughout the day. If you are suffering from severe symptoms of pregnancy during the first trimester then this may affect your appetite. In fact, many women are put off certain foods during the first trimester. It is important to try and eat well during the first trimester as your baby’s essential organs and bones are developing at this time.

Most of the weight gain during the first trimester is due to the build of water necessary to the protection and growth of your baby. You can expect to put on at least four pounds during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, weight gain varies according to individuals circumstances in terms of weight prior to pregnancy. There are, for example, some women who gain up to ten pounds during the first trimester of pregnancy due to a lack of activity during this time.

The Second Trimester

You may start to show your baby bump by the beginning of the second trimester and your weight may be increasing. If you have put on weight during the second trimester, take it as a positive thing as it is essential to the wellbeing of your unborn baby to put on weight. Many women during the second trimester experience cravings, the most popular being sugary foods such as chocolate and ice cream.

It is important not to over-indulge as during pregnancy you are more susceptible to developing gestational diabetes. Sugar intake must therefore be controlled. But still, pregnant women shouldn’t deprive themselves of their cravings and an occasional treat will not cause great harm. By the time you are 6 months pregnant you should have put on no more than 6 kilos of weight. If you are over 6 kilos do not be hard on yourself, as in some circumstances this is acceptable due to the number of babies you are carrying and other factors.

The Third Trimester

The third trimester will see you reach your optimum pregnancy weight gaining around a pound or more each week and you would probably become the maximum size nearer the time of birth. All the extra weight may put pressure on your lower back and it is important to keep yourself mobilised by doing exercises such as brisk walking.

The third trimester will show your pregnancy in full bloom and you can enjoy the time you have left as a noticeably pregnant mother.

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