Pregnancy: Weight Gain in Each Trimester

Weight gain during pregnancy is normal and necessary. The goal is to gain 9-12 kilograms gradually, about 1 kilogram per month. The distribution of weight varies per trimester and depends on each woman's body.

1st Trimester: The mother gains 1-2 kilograms, mainly due to the placenta, amniotic fluid, uterus, and breasts.

2nd Trimester: Weight gain ranges around 6 kilograms, with one kilogram attributed to the baby and the rest to the child's support system.

3rd Trimester: The mother gains about 5 kilograms, with 3 kilograms attributed to the baby.

Weight gain should be gradual, averaging 1 kilogram/month. The increase varies from 20-24%, unevenly distributed over time. In the last trimester, weighing should be done every 15 days.

Important: If the pregnant woman's weight increases by more than half a kilogram per week, if her legs are swollen, or if she has protein in her urine, she should consult a doctor.

Where is the extra weight? In the walls of the uterus, the placenta, the amniotic fluid, the breasts, and fat storage.

What is the placenta? The organ through which the fetus is fed.

What is the umbilical cord? It connects the placenta to the fetus.

What is amniotic fluid? The fluid in which the fetus is located.