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As your body is changing, you may be wondering how much weight you should gain during your pregnancy. Usually you can expect to gain approximately 22-27 pounds. When and how fast you gain weight is very important. In the first trimester, you should gain only two to four pounds, since the fetus is in its beginning stages of growth and development. During the second and third trimesters, you should expect an average weight gain of just less than one pound per week. A sudden, large weight gain could be caused by fluid retention in your tissue. This type of sudden change may be a warning signal and should be brought to your doctor’s attention. Your pregnancy weight just prior to delivery may be divided into the following parts: Baby – about 7 ½ pounds Fat and Water in Tissues – 6-10 pounds Placenta, Amniotic Fluid, Uterus and Breast Growth – 6 ½ pounds Within a few weeks after delivery, you will lose a significan amount of the weight gained. With proper eating habits and moderate exercise, the remainder of your weight gain should be gone in three to six months after delivery. Pregnancy is not the time to undertake weight reduction diet. If you are overweight, it is important to choose your foods wisely. Avoid empty calorie foods such as soft drinks and candy bars. Remember, your baby needs good and complete nutrition to grow and develop to his or her full potential. If you are underweight, it may be desirable for you to gain slightly more than the average recommended 22-27 pounds. Check with your doctor.