Questions
Pregnancy Weight Gain by Week Chart: Your Guide
A pregnancy weight gain by week chart shows a gradual increase, with about 1–4.5 pounds total in the first trimester, then roughly 1 pound per week in the second and third trimesters for average-weight women. Your specific target varies by your starting BMI, so check with your midwife for a personalized plan.
Weekly Weight Gain Recommendations by Trimester
Here’s a clear pregnancy weight gain by week chart based on guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM). Remember, these are general ranges—your ideal gain depends on your pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI).
| Trimester | Total Gain (Average BMI) | Weekly Rate | What’s Happening |
|---|---|---|---|
| First (weeks 1–13) | 1–4.5 lbs | About 0.5–1 lb per month | Baby is tiny; your body is adjusting. Some women lose weight due to nausea. |
| Second (weeks 14–27) | About 1 lb per week | 0.8–1 lb per week | Baby grows rapidly; your uterus expands, and amniotic fluid increases. |
| Third (weeks 28–40) | About 1 lb per week | 0.8–1 lb per week | Baby gains most of its weight; you may retain more fluid. |
For underweight women (BMI
How to Track Your Weight Gain Using This Chart
Tracking your weight gain is simple and reassuring. Here’s how to use the chart effectively, whether you’re in Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, or anywhere else.
- Weigh yourself consistently – Use the same scale, at the same time of day (ideally morning, after using the bathroom), and wear similar clothing. This gives you accurate comparisons.
- Record weekly – Write down your weight each week in a notebook or app. This helps you see patterns rather than daily fluctuations.
- Plot on your chart – Mark your weekly weight on the chart to see if you’re staying within the recommended range for your trimester.
- Focus on the trend – One week’s jump or plateau isn’t a concern. Look at the overall direction over several weeks.
- Share with your midwife – Bring your chart to prenatal visits. Your midwife can interpret it and adjust recommendations if needed.
If you’re unsure about your target range, ask at your next prenatal visit – we’re happy to help you personalize your plan.
What If My Weight Gain Doesn't Match the Chart?
It’s normal to have questions when your numbers don’t line up. Here’s how to decide if you need to take action.
A good fit if…
- You’re within a few pounds of the range – Small deviations are common, especially in the first trimester.
- You’re gaining steadily – Even if slightly above or below, a consistent trend is usually fine.
- You feel well – No concerning symptoms like severe swelling or extreme fatigue.
Consider another option if…
- You’re losing weight in the second or third trimester – This could signal a problem.
- You gain more than 5 pounds in a week – Rapid gain may indicate fluid retention or other issues.
- You’re not gaining at all for several weeks – Your baby may not be getting enough nutrients.
If you’re worried, reach out to your provider. At The Midwife and More, we can help you understand what’s normal and what’s not. Many women find that a quick check-in eases their mind.
Get Personalized Weight Gain Guidance from Our Midwives
Every pregnancy is unique, and a chart is just a starting point. Our board-certified nurse midwives at The Midwife and More, located in Agoura Hills, can create a weight gain plan tailored to your body, health history, and baby’s needs. We serve families from Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Camarillo, Fillmore, Calabasas, and beyond.
We offer in-person and telehealth consultations, so you can get support no matter where you are. Our team has over 23 years of NICU nursing experience and has supported 700+ hospital births—we know what healthy weight gain looks like and how to help you achieve it.
Call us at 877-537-3240 to schedule an appointment, or book online to get started. We’re here Monday through Friday, 9 AM–5 PM, with after-hours appointments available by request.
Directions to our midwife near me from Ventu Park Open Space
Start at Ventu Park Open Space and head to The Midwife and More at 5115 Clareton Drive, suite #100, Agoura Hills, CA 91301.
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Frequently asked questions
What if I'm pregnant with twins?
Weight gain recommendations are higher for multiples. For twins, the IOM suggests 37–54 pounds for average-weight women. Your midwife can give you a more specific range based on your BMI and how your babies are growing.
Is it okay to lose weight in the first trimester?
Yes, it's common due to nausea and food aversions. As long as you're not losing excessively and you're staying hydrated, it's usually fine. If you're losing more than a few pounds or can't keep any food down, contact your provider.
How often should I weigh myself at home?
Once a week is ideal. Daily weighing can cause unnecessary stress due to normal fluid fluctuations. Consistency is more important than frequency.
Can I use a pregnancy weight gain app instead of a chart?
Yes, many apps track weight gain and show you where you fall. Just make sure the app uses ACOG/IOM guidelines. However, an app can't replace personalized advice from your midwife.
Also asked as
- How much weight should I gain each week of pregnancy?
- What is the normal weight gain per week by trimester?
- Pregnancy weight gain chart by week for average BMI