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Where Does All the Pregnancy Weight Go?

Baby only weighs so much—so why do you gain all this weight during pregnancy? Here's a breakdown of where it's all going.
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Updated April 26, 2017
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends gaining 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy—but why? Here’s a pound-by-pound breakdown of how that weight is distributed across your body.

1.5 pounds: the placenta

7 pounds: maternal stores of fat, protein, and other nutrients

7.5 pounds: your average full-term baby

2 pounds: breast tissue (we know it feels like so much more!)

4 pounds: increased fluid volume

4 pounds: increased blood volume

2 pounds: the uterus

2 pounds: amniotic fluid

Total = 30 pounds

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

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