Twin Pregnancy Weight Gain

Pregnancy, with or without multiples, is not the time to try to lose weight.   However, you do not need to gain inordinate amounts, which will be difficult to lose later, either.   Try to keep your weight gain within the guidelines provided by your doctor.

Depending on your pre-pregnancy weight, the recommended weight gain will vary, but a good rule of thumb is as follows:

If you are at a healthy starting weight with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 18.5 to 24.9, for a singleton pregnancy your weight gain should be around 25 to 35 pounds, which is broken down as 3 to 5 pounds in the first trimester and 1 pound every week thereafter.   For a twin pregnancy, the guidelines have traditionally been about 10 pounds more than a singleton, for a total weight gain of 35 to 45 pounds.   Many doctors are now recommending 24 pounds by week 24 and 1.5 pounds every week thereafter.   Since 38 weeks is considered full-term with twins, based on this, your total weight gain should be around 45 pounds, give or take depending on whether you are underweight or overweight to begin with.

The best way to keep your weight in check is by following a healthy diet.   Start by cutting out the junk such as sugars, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats, but don't skimp on the good stuff.  Unless you have been told otherwise by your doctor, exercise is safe during pregnancy and provides many benefits to you and your baby (or babies).   One of the benefits (of many), is helping to regulate your weight gain.

Remember that the BMI guidelines DO NOT apply to a woman during pregnancy.   This should be used only as a tool for your starting weight.   If you are concerned about your weight gain, please speak with your doctor or midwife for advice.

Visit www.twinpregnancyinfo.com where you will find the latest information regarding twin development, fraternal twins vs. identical twins, weight gain management, high risk pregnancy, understanding cervical cerclage and medical testing, as well as health, nutrition, and fitness.