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Pregnancy Weight Gain: 2 in 3 Moms Miss the Mark
20 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Two-thirds of pregnancies involve weight gain outside recommended ranges.
- Current guidelines are outdated, based on 1980s data from limited populations.
- Both too little and too much weight gain pose risks to maternal and infant health.
Analysis of 1.6 million women worldwide indicates that roughly two-thirds of pregnancies experience weight gain outside recommended ranges, signaling a critical need for updated global standards. Existing guidelines, derived from 1980s data primarily on white women in high-income countries, fail to account for today's diverse populations and environmental factors.
Gestational weight gain significantly impacts maternal and infant health. Gaining too little weight increases risks like preterm birth and low birth weight, while excessive gain raises the likelihood of hypertensive disorders and cesarean deliveries. These findings underscore the need for adaptable, individualized care beyond strict weight thresholds.
Experts emphasize a shift towards health-promoting practices and supportive language, considering personal contexts like fatigue and stress. Encouraging practical strategies such as short walks and hydration, alongside partner involvement, can foster healthier behaviors and improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
