Weight Gain
The average weight gain is 20-35 lbs. A pregnant woman will gain 12-16 pounds up until about 20 weeks, and then about a pound a week. We use body mass index (BMI) to assess how much weight you should gain. It is a score based on your height and weight.
- Normal BMI of 18-24: 20-35 lbs.
- Overweight BMI: 25-30: 15-25 lbs.
- Obese BMI: over 30: 11-20 lbs.
Obesity can increase your risk for high blood pressure, diabetes and Cesarean delivery.
Alcohol
There is no safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy. Heavy drinking during pregnancy puts the fetus at risk for birth defects, mental retardation and developmental delays. We recommend you do not drink during pregnancy.
Caffeine
Intake should be limited to 200mg/day (equivalent to one 12 ounce cup of coffee.
Smoking
DON’T SMOKE. It increases your risk of miscarriage, high blood pressure, and having low birth weight babies.
FISH
The FDA recommends that pregnant and nursing women avoid eating certain fish which may contain high levels of mercury including shark, swordfish, king mackerel. Canned albacore tuna is restricted to one 6 oz. serving per week. Cooked sushi is safe to eat.
