Weight Gain While Expecting Twins, Triplets or More

Gaining enough weight during pregnancy is extremely important when you’re carrying multiples. Sufficient weight gain can help stave off preterm birth, support your babies development and boost their birth weight. But weight gain should be slow and steady, and your caloric intake should come from healthful, nutrient-rich foods. Eat five or six times a day, and pay attention to the vitamins and minerals you consume.

Twins

How much you should gain: If you’re carrying twins and your weight was in the normal range (body mass index of 18.5 to 25) before conception, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that you gain 37 to 54 pounds during your pregnancy. If you were overweight before getting pregnant (BMI of 25 to 29.9), you should aim to gain 31 to 50 pounds. The recommended weight gain for obese women (BMI of 30 or more) is 25 to 42 pounds.

When to gain: This means you should be gaining about a pound a week throughout the first half of your pregnancy, and a little more each week throughout the second half.

Triplets and other multiples

How much you should gain: There currently aren’t any official guidelines for pregnancy weight gain if you’re carrying triplets or more, due to insufficient data. Talk to your doctor about how to set healthy weight gain goals that are right for you.

If you were underweight before your pregnancy or you lost weight in the first trimester due to morning sickness, you should try to make up that weight gain as early as possible. If you experience very sudden changes in weight gain or loss, contact your doctor.

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.