# Weight gain in pregnancy

> Why weight gain in pregnancy is kept within a recommended range, what the risks are at either extreme, and how body mass index is calculated.

Published: 8 February 2022 · Medically reviewed by: Op. Dr. Murat Alpay

**Why weight gain in pregnancy is kept within a recommended range, what the risks are at either extreme, and how body mass index is calculated.**

When [weight gain in pregnancy](https://www.muratalpay.com.tr/en/tedaviler/gebelik-takibi/) is greater than it should be, the risk of gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, macrosomia (a large baby) and delivery by caesarean section all increase. The size of that risk is known to depend on how much weight is gained before delivery.

When weight gain is lower than it should be, the risk rises of a baby born with a low weight for its gestational age.

For that reason, weight gain through pregnancy should be kept within the recommended range, with appropriate lifestyle changes, dietary planning and exercise. The recommendations for weight gain in pregnancy are based on the woman's body mass index.

## How body mass index is calculated

Body weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in metres (kg/m²).

Written and reviewed by

**Op. Dr. Murat Alpay**

Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology · Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine (Çapa)

[Full biography →](https://www.muratalpay.com.tr/en/hakkinda/)

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Original page: https://www.muratalpay.com.tr/en/blog/gebelikte-kilo-alimi/  
Last updated: 2022-02-08

Op. Dr. Murat Alpay — Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology  
Op. Dr. Murat Alpay Practice, Tekelioğlu Cd. No:51 B Kat:2, Filo Apt., 07160 Muratpaşa / Antalya  
0505 351 77 88 · Monday – Saturday 09:00 – 18:00 · Closed on Sunday

*This information is for general guidance only and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment.*