WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Slow Weight Gain? It’s Normal

Pregnancy
Pregnancy health
Slow Weight Gain? It’s Normal
Understanding the Unusual Weight Dip
Throughout your pregnancy journey, steady weight gain has propelled your baby's remarkable growth and the essential developments that nurture and safeguard them — from the placenta to the amniotic fluid and beyond.
So, when you notice the numbers on the scale taking a downward turn in the final weeks of pregnancy, it can certainly be a surprising and possibly unsettling experience, especially if you weren't anticipating it.
Rest assured, you're not alone in encountering this shift. Let's delve into the meaning behind this change and the factors influencing weight loss as your pregnancy reaches its conclusion.
Decoding End-of-Pregnancy Weight Dynamics
Is it normal to witness a decrease in weight as you approach the finish line of your pregnancy?
As you enter the late stages of the third trimester, you might notice that your pregnancy weight gain stabilizes or even slightly decreases in these closing weeks before your baby's grand debut.
This phenomenon of weight gain slowing down or plateauing is actually a signal that your body is priming itself for the upcoming labor, indicating that all systems are aligning for childbirth.
Unveiling the Triggers of Third Trimester Weight Changes
You might be grappling to understand the nuances of weight loss during the third trimester, wondering what exactly prompts this trend toward the end of your pregnancy.
Your precious baby isn't the cause; in fact, they're likely still on their growth journey.
Consider the following factors that could contribute to this change:
  • Lower Amniotic Fluid Levels: In the final stretch of pregnancy, the amount of amniotic fluid begins to decrease even before your water officially breaks. This drop in fluid levels translates to a reduction in water weight.
  • Increased Urination: With your baby's head applying pressure on your bladder, you've probably noticed an intensified urge to urinate. This results in a more rapid elimination of fluids from your body.
  • Frequent Bowel Movements: Are you spending more time in the bathroom, not just for urination? As labor approaches, looser bowel movements can lead to a slight decrease in weight.
  • Heightened Sweating: As you near the end of pregnancy, your body is working diligently to eliminate excess fluid it no longer requires. Get ready for a potential increase in sweating, especially post-delivery, when your body intensifies sweating to flush out accumulated fluids.
  • Reduced Appetite: Towards the final stages of pregnancy, you might find your appetite diminishing, making it challenging to consume substantial meals.
  • Increased Activity Levels: If your nesting instinct is in full gear, you could be expending more calories than usual. Engaging in activities like cleaning and organizing might contribute to weight fluctuation.
Guidance for Navigating Late-Pregnancy Weight Loss
Even though you're nearing the end of this incredible journey, remember that you're still providing vital nutrients, including brain-building elements like DHA and protein, to your growing baby until the very last moment.
It's important to stay attuned to your body and its changing needs. Should you experience weight loss during the final weeks of pregnancy, consider these steps:
  • Stay Hydrated: Since lower amniotic fluid levels and increased urination can contribute to fluid loss, ensure you're drinking enough water to stay adequately hydrated.
  • Focus on Nutrient-Rich Foods: Opt for nutrient-dense choices to ensure you're nourishing both yourself and your baby. Incorporate foods rich in DHA and protein to support your baby's development.
  • Listen to Your Body: If your appetite wanes, try consuming smaller, more frequent meals to meet your nutritional needs.
  • Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider. They can offer tailored advice based on your individual circumstances.
As you approach the grand finale of your pregnancy journey, embrace the uniqueness of your experience.
Your body is orchestrating an incredible symphony, preparing to welcome your little one into the world.
A
Ashley
5 Feb 2024

Baby girl came out to say hello today! Doctors already told me to slow down my weight gain 🫤

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
4 comments
N
Nicole
You don’t have to eat for 2 per se about an extra 150 calories… I gained a lot of weight with my first I was 175 before I gave birth and I’m originally 135!! It puts you at higher risk for gestational diabetes and makes you more sluggish!! Also harder to back bounce from and prone to more stretch marked in stomachs and hips
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
I
Iyana
I feel like your fine I gained over 50 pounds with my first and with my second I only gained 3 pounds because I lost then gained didn’t do anything different with my first or my second I ate the same every pregnancy is different!! But I think you look great and congratulations🤍
27 Mar 2024

Answer

k
kam
14 Jan 2024

am i gaining weight to fast like is there a certain amount your supposed to gain? i was 129 before getting pregnant im 150 now and only 16 weeks should i slow down my eating?

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
2 comments
A
Amie
It depends on a lot, especially your pre-pregnancy weight/ BMI. (Though BMI isn’t best indicator in general). I think the typical recommended is 25-35lbs for the whole (single baby) pregnancy. Mainly gaining it after week 20. Screenshot from Mayo Clinic
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
K
Kamryn🇲🇽
Ask your doctor what's safe and healthy, I was 115 gained 125 and went down 120, my doctor wants me to gain at least 10-15 pounds but I can't seem to.... Always ask your doctor!
27 Mar 2024

Answer

T
Tee
7 Jan 2024

When is it normal to start gaining that extra weight? Before pregnancy I was 168lbs, 20 weeks in, lil mama is growing perfectly but I’m 164lbs… my doctor says with my bmi I should average 15-20lb weight gain my 2nd trimester…I don’t have any significant urge to eat a lot of food or anything to gain this weight. Any tips? Is this normal? (First time mom if you couldn’t tell)

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
1 comments
D
Danielle
It all varies really the drs are just going based on what they’re told but everyone is different, I’m huge already for 20 weeks 😩😩😩
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
N
Natalie
9 Oct 2023

anyone else experiencing weight loss instead of weight gain? apparently it’s normal..still puts me on edge though

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
4 comments
T
Taylor
Yes but only cuz I had weight loss surgery while pregnant (didn’t know I was pregnant yet) lol but I would have anyways cuz morning sickness is still all the time for me
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
S
Sariea
Yes girl I done gained weight and lost weight due to not being able to hold anything down and what I can hold down is junk food 😭😭
27 Mar 2024

Answer

S
Sarah
7 Sep 2023

So I have a question, is it normal to gain 10 pounds and I’m only in my 5th month of pregnancy? I feel like I’m gaining to much weight to fast

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
2 comments
A
Amber
I am 22 weeks and have gained 15lbs so far. My ob said it’s normal
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
S
Sarah
Ooh ok I guess it’s just me worrying to much
27 Mar 2024

Answer

S
Semon
3 Mar 2023

It’s normal to gain a lot weight in first trimester? I’m only 5weeks and I was around 150ib and now around 170ibs . What exercise I can do?

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
1 comments
C
Cryssiah
31 Dec 2022

Is it normal to lose instead of gain weight in early pregnancy? I’ve went from 142 at 6 weeks to now 134 at 12 weeks, I eat regularly but just can’t seem to gain. I also had the flu this last week, could be partially why.

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
2 comments
🍹
🍹Jenni
Yes very normal! I am losing weight too and OB said that is normal. 2-4 lbs is normal but if you are losing more than that it’s ok you will gain some in the next trimester!
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
C
Cryssiah
It started only being like a pound here and there but recently it’s been about a pound a week, i eat all the time or at least try to but I’ll talk to my doc about it on the 3rd when I go in for my next ultrasound/checkup.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

B
BLaq
20 Sep 2022

I’ve gained 3 pounds since September 14th. I was 109. Now I’m 112.6. Is it normal to gain weight so fast?

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
10 comments
D
Dakota
I gained weight then lost weight then gained it again cause i was super sick in the beginning id say its normal ! Especially if your having weird cravings and eating a little more than normal . Or late at night . I gained 60 pouds with my first and iv only gained like 15 with this one just depends everyones body is different but id say its definitely good to gain some weight !
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
B
Blocked user
Girl I gain 5 a month lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer

A
Ashley
25 Jun 2022

I'm going to my doctor this week. But I have a question , is it normal to not gain any weight while pregnant , I'm about 6 months now and only gained like 2lbs.

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
5 comments
S
Shay
Same boat as you. It has me a little worried. Really need to stay off Google but can't help it 😮‍💨😮‍💨
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
W
Willette
Don’t worry you will probably gain all your gain weight in the third trimester. 🤞🏾 Everyone’s body is different remember that!
27 Mar 2024

Answer

T
Tae
9 Jan 2022

I find it so weird that I’m not showing; only maybe a little. I did read somewhere that it’s normal not to gain any weight during the first trimester, but still.. :/

Pregnancy Pregnancy health
0 comments
s
sassy
Same here I am 14 weeks and not showing really at all. Kinda has me worried
27 Mar 2024

Answer

See more comments
C
Courteney
It's normal.. especially if your FTM.. mine literally happened overnight lol
27 Mar 2024

Answer

Related articles

Hot topics

More questions from Moms