It's important to be at a healthy weight before getting pregnant.
About weight gain during pregnancy
-
Gaining the right amount of weight when you're pregnant will help you to lose weight after giving birth, can make your delivery easier and will help make sure your baby is born at a healthy weight. It also helps prevent early childhood obesity.
-
Not gaining enough weight can cause your baby to be born too small, too early or with birth defects.
-
Gaining too much weight can lead to problems during your pregnancy like high blood pressure, swelling and gestational diabetes. It also may cause your baby to be born too big or too early, or increase your chance of requiring a Cesarean section.
Make healthy food and drink choices and stay active
-
Choose foods low in fat.
-
Eat fruit and vegetables every day.
-
Drink eight glasses of water every day.
-
Cut back on sweets and soft drinks.
-
Choose low-fat dairy products.
Use the Choose My Plate website to learn more.
Body mass index, or BMI, is a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to both adult men and women. Find out your BMI using the calculator below. If you\'re overweight or obese, take steps to be at a healthier weight before pregnancy.