What is the expected weight gain for a woman of normal weight during pregnancy?

The expected weight gain for a woman of normal weight during pregnancy is typically between 25 to 35 pounds. This range is based on the guidelines provided by the Institute of Medicine, which consider the average body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy. Women with a normal BMI, defined as being between 18.5 to 24.9, are encouraged to gain this amount to support fetal development, placental growth, and increasing maternal body mass to accommodate these changes.

Gaining this amount of weight can provide sufficient nutrients for the developing fetus, help in building up stores of energy (such as fat), and ensure proper growth and development. It is also important to note that weight gain during pregnancy should be gradual and monitored to promote maternal and infant health. Adjustments to weight gain recommendations can be made based on individual circumstances, such as multifetal pregnancies or underlying health issues, but for the population with a normal pre-pregnancy weight, 25 to 35 pounds is established as the appropriate benchmark.