Courtesy of Cy-Fair Hospital
When you’re having a baby, you’ve got a lot on your mind—including how much weight is safe to gain and how to lose it after birth. To assess how much you know about pregnancy and weight, decide if the following statements are true or false, then check your answers. Remember that every woman is different, so talk with your doctor about your personal nutrition and exercise needs during pregnancy.
Questions
1. Most of the weight gained during pregnancy is the baby’s weight. True OR False
2. How much weight you should gain while pregnant depends on how much you weigh before you get pregnant. True OR False
3. If your weight is healthy before you become pregnant, you should gain between 25 and 35 pounds total. True OR False
4. Most of the weight you gain while pregnant should be in the first trimester. True OR False
5. It’s OK to eat whatever you want while pregnant. True OR False
6. Gaining too much weight may cause problems for the mother and the baby. True OR False
7. Gaining weight within recommended boundaries may reduce the risk for stretch marks, backache, and shortness of breath. True OR False
8. Gaining too much weight while pregnant may make it harder to lose the weight after the baby is born. True OR False
9. Proper diet and exercise before and during pregnancy are important for a healthy pregnancy. True OR False
10. Weight loss after pregnancy may take time but can promote good health. True OR False
Scroll down to check your answers...
Answers
1. False. The baby only adds about ¼ of the weight.
2. True. The amount will vary depending on whether your weight is normal, too high, or too low.
3. True.
4. False. During the second and third trimester, weight gain should typically average about 1 to 2 pounds a week vs. 3 to 5 pounds for the whole first trimester.
5. False. You should eat healthy meals and avoid junk food.
6. True. The baby may come early and the mother could have a higher risk for gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
7. True.
8. True.
9. True.
10. True.
Let Us Help You Prepare for Pregnancy! Request a Preparing for Pregnancy Kit* that includes a 16-page booklet full of health tips and fun information about pregnancy and your growing family, a pregnancy pinwheel, and a free pregnancy test. Call 877-763-9467to request your free kit today. *$10 retail value. Supplies are limited. Offer good while supplies last.