A patient visits the clinic for her regular prenatal checkup at nine months gestation. The nurse monitors her weight. How many pounds per week is considered normal weight gain during the ninth month of pregnancy?

Explanation

• In the average woman, normal weight gain is 1–3 kg (2.2–6.6 lbs) per month during the second and third trimesters. Therefore, the answer of 1 lb per week is expected.

• A weight gain of 25 to 35 pounds is currently recommended as an average weight gain in pregnancy. Weight gain in pregnancy occurs from both fetal growth and accumulation of maternal stores and fluid.

• Women who are underweight before pregnancy should gain slightly more weight, while an obese woman might be advised to gain less than average.

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