Parents' tips: managing your weight during pregnancy

Managing your weight can be a challenge when you’re not expecting a baby. So staying fit and healthy when you’re pregnant may seem like a daunting prospect. Luckily, these BabyCenter parents-to-be have plenty of tips to help you manage your weight in pregnancy.

Make small changes to your eating habits

“If I’m craving a slice of cake I try to have a sweet but healthy snack instead, such as yoghurt with fruit. I remind myself that cake doesn’t contain much in the way of nutrients for my baby, but the alternative does.”
Priya

“I’m just sticking to eating healthily, drinking plenty of fluids and keeping active. I’m not doing intense exercise, just walking a lot.”
Rose

“My wife is just trying to make healthy food choices as much as possible. Then when she wants a little treat she can have it without feeling guilty. I’m trying to do the same to give her some moral support.”
Andrew

Ask your caregiver for advice

“I have a high BMI and my midwife recommended that I join a healthy eating group. I’ve managed to keep my weight gain steady throughout my pregnancy so far.”
Megan

“My partner had never exercised before and didn’t know where to start. But we talked to her midwife who helped us work out an exercise program that’s safe in pregnancy. I exercise with her when I can – we’re in this together!”
Ricky

“My midwife said that my BMI is a bit high, and that it’s a risk factor for my pregnancy. I’ve made a real effort to be healthier by eating lots more fruit and vegetables, drinking plenty of water and cutting down on my beloved chocolate.”
Heidi

Get more exercise

“I make sure I go for a swim at least once a week. I also go on regular walks with my partner, and I’ve joined an antenatal yoga class, too.”
Zoe

“I’m almost at the end of my third pregnancy. I put on 20kg during my first pregnancy, 13kg with my second and now only 6.5kg so far with this one. The difference? I go for a walk every single day, even if it’s just a short one to get me out of the house.”
Tatiana

“I go for a swim after work. I make sure I have my swimmers in the car each morning so I have no excuses for not going. Swimming is great in pregnancy. It makes me feel really light and buoyant, and I can forget the weight of my big bump!”
Rachel

Use our pregnancy weight gain estimator to see how much you may gain.