How much weight you gain during pregnancy depends mainly on your weight before pregnancy. For a pregnancy with one baby, the recommended total gain is about 28 to 40 pounds if you were underweight, 25 to 35 pounds if you were at a healthy weight, 15 to 25 pounds if you were overweight, and 11 to 20 pounds if you had obesity.
Weight gain is usually gradual. People who begin pregnancy at a healthy weight may gain about 2 to 4 pounds during the first trimester, followed by roughly 1 pound per week during the rest of pregnancy.
These ranges are general targets, not strict rules. Your recommended gain may be different if you are carrying twins or have a medical condition that affects pregnancy. Gaining much more than recommended may also make it harder to return to your previous weight after delivery.
Focus on balanced meals, regular activity approved for pregnancy, and steady progress rather than trying to reach an exact number each week. Avoid dieting, weight-loss products, or medication without medical guidance. Your obstetrician or prenatal care provider can monitor your weight and recommend a safe, individualized target.