Weight-loss during second or third trimester of pregnancy — should you worry?

Weight-loss during second or third trimester of pregnancy — should you worry?

Read this if you or anyone you know is losing weight during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, both excessive weight lossand weight gainare a matter of concern and each has its pros and cons. However, one thing that is expected during pregnancy is weight gain and it is quite normal. But remember weight loss during the first trimesterof the pregnancy is also common. ‘Many women tend to lose weight during the first trimester. On an average, they might lose about one to two kilos in the first three months. This happens because of various hormonal changes happening in the body. Severe morning sickness, nausea and vomiting could make one retain less food and nutrients that could trigger weight loss,’ says Dr Meghana Sarvaiya, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician, Cloudnine Hospital, Mumbai.

However, this pattern of losing weight settles after the first trimester or a little after that. The second and third trimester is the time when weight gain is supposed to be rampant as the baby’s growth and development picks up pace. ‘On an average, during the second and third trimester a woman might gain up to four to five kilos during each trimester. How much weight you can gain depends on various factors like your calorie intake, metabolism and food habits (having a balanced diet),’ says Dr Sarvaiya.

Is weight loss during the second and third trimester harmful?

‘There can be times when the expectant mother might lose one or two kilos. However, what leads to this weight loss needs to be examined. Some women might suffer from diarrhoeaduring this time or it could be just lack of appetite. But weight loss during the later stages should be taken seriously. If the mother is not eating enough, she should still try and have meals on time forcefully. Moreover, increasing protein intake in diet can help to gain weight and ensure that both the mother and baby have adequate nutrient supply,’ says Dr Sarvaiya.

When should you worry about weight loss during pregnancy?

‘On an average, a gain of nine to 10 kilos during your pregnancy is considered healthy. So if you lose a kilo or two during your pregnancy it wouldn’t be a cause for concern if your overall weight gain is regular,’ informs Dr Sarvaiya. However, if you are losing more than a kilo with every passing month you need to consult your doctor and get treated as that could mean danger for your baby. ‘Excessive weight loss during pregnancy can lead to smaller babies, restricted growth of the fetus, postpartum troubles and more,’ warns Dr Sarvaiya. So, take excessive weight loss (losing more than two kilos a month) seriously. Remember, pregnancy is not a time to think about weight loss or weight gain but your baby’s health.

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