Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator
Calculate healthy weight gain targets during pregnancy based on your pre-pregnancy BMI and current week of gestation.
24.5
Pre-Pregnancy BMI
2nd Trimester
Current Trimester
5.0 kg
Gained So Far
11.5–16 kg
Total Recommended Gain
Weight Gain Progress
| Pre-pregnancy BMI category | — |
| Recommended total gain | — |
| Expected gain at this week | — |
| Your gain so far | — |
| Status | — |
| Remaining weeks | — |
| Weekly gain target | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?
Recommended gain depends on your pre-pregnancy BMI: Underweight (BMI <18.5): 12.5–18 kg. Normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9): 11.5–16 kg. Overweight (BMI 25–29.9): 7–11.5 kg. Obese (BMI 30+): 5–9 kg. These are Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines widely used internationally.
Why is appropriate weight gain important?
Too little weight gain increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Too much weight gain increases risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, large-for-gestational-age baby, and difficulty losing weight after birth. Both extremes affect maternal and infant outcomes.
Where does pregnancy weight gain come from?
About 3.3 kg is the baby, 0.9 kg the placenta, 0.9 kg amniotic fluid, 1–1.5 kg increased blood volume, 1–2 kg breast tissue, 2–3 kg uterus and fluid, and 2–5 kg maternal fat stores — for a total of around 11–16 kg in a normal-weight pregnancy.
What Nigerian foods support healthy pregnancy weight gain?
Focus on nutrient-dense whole foods: beans (iron, protein), dark leafy greens like ugu (folate, iron), eggs (choline), fresh fish (omega-3 fatty acids), dairy or fortified soy milk (calcium), fruits, and whole grains like ofada rice. Avoid processed foods and excessive refined carbohydrates.
Should I eat for two during pregnancy?
No — the phrase is misleading. You only need about 300 extra kcal/day in the second trimester and 450 extra kcal/day in the third trimester. Quality matters more than quantity. A well-nourished Nigerian mother can often meet these needs from her normal diet with modest adjustments.