Information to Help You Have a Healthy Pregnancy
Press the right arrow key (→) to continue
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from your height and weight before pregnancy.
Your healthcare team uses this number to plan your pregnancy care.
Higher BMI is associated with some pregnancy complications.
Important: This doesn't mean complications will happen—it means your care team will monitor you more closely.
Most women with obesity have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.
Your team watches for these conditions
These are possibilities, not certainties. Your care is customized to prevent problems.
Your personalized care plan includes
At every prenatal visit to watch for preeclampsia
Earlier testing (around 24-28 weeks or sooner)
To check baby's growth and anatomy
May be done more frequently in the third trimester
| Test | When | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Early glucose test | First trimester | Check for pre-existing diabetes |
| Detailed ultrasound | 18-22 weeks | Better look at baby's anatomy |
| Growth ultrasounds | Third trimester | Track baby's size |
| Non-stress tests | 36+ weeks | Check baby's heart rate patterns |
Not everyone needs all tests—your team decides based on your specific situation.
Ways to help yourself and your baby
For BMI ≥30: Aim for 11–20 pounds total during pregnancy
This is a guideline, not a strict rule. Focus on healthy habits, not the scale.
No. Pregnancy is not the time for weight-loss diets.
Your baby needs nutrients to grow. Instead, focus on:
After delivery, your healthcare team can help you reach a healthy weight safely.
ACOG recommendations for timing
Delivery between 39 weeks 0 days and 40 weeks 6 days
Timing depends on the specific condition and how you and baby are doing
Your team will discuss the safest plan with you
Most women with obesity deliver at term. Early delivery is only done when medically necessary.
Your team prepares for what might happen, not what will happen.
Special attention to:
Your postpartum care is just as important as your prenatal care.
If you're thinking about another baby someday:
Every pregnancy is different. Past pregnancies don't predict future ones.
Not automatically. Many women with obesity deliver vaginally. Your delivery method depends on how labor goes and your baby's position.
Usually yes. Sometimes we need a longer exam or a repeat visit, but we can almost always get the images we need.
Most babies born to mothers with obesity are completely healthy. That's why we monitor closely—to catch and treat any problems early.
You're not alone—these specialists may help with your care
You're the most important member of the team. Speak up with questions or concerns.
Don't wait—call right away if you have:
These symptoms need immediate attention. You're not bothering anyone by calling.
Obesity is one factor in your pregnancy—not the only factor. Your health, your actions, and your partnership with your care team matter more.
Regular monitoring catches problems early
Healthy eating supports you and baby
Safe exercise benefits pregnancy
Your care team is your partner
Avoid internet forums and unverified websites. When in doubt, ask your care team.
Pregnancy is a journey. Your care team is walking beside you every step of the way.
Questions? Write them down and bring them to your next appointment.