It has long been recognized that too much weight gain or obesity during pregnancy can have serious consequences, including fetal anomalies, high blood pressure, and diabetes.  Recently, the Institute of Medicine published Weight Gain in Pregnancy: Reexamining the Guidelines.  This 300 page report analyzes the effects of weight during pregnancy and sets forth guidelines for how much a woman should gain. 

The Institute of Medicine purposes weight goals based on a woman’s Body Mass Index or BMI before she becomes pregnant.  In other words, the higher your initial weight, the less weight you should gain.  For an average size woman (BMI of 18.5-24.9), a target weight gain should be 25-35 lbs.  An overweight woman (BMI 25-29.9) should gain between 15-25 lbs. And an obese woman (BMI of 30 or greater) should aim for 11-20 lbs during the course of the pregnancy.  It is important to recognize that pregnancy is not a time for weight loss but careful attention to healthy eating habits can prevent too much weight gain.  Ask your doctor for your BMI and the recommended weight gain in your pregnancy. 

See the The Denver Post for more information on the healthy weight guidelines from The Institute of Medicine.