What weight gain does the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommend for women of ideal body weight during pregnancy?

The recommendation for weight gain during pregnancy for women of ideal body weight is 25 to 35 pounds. This guideline is established to support healthy fetal development and to ensure that the mother remains healthy throughout the pregnancy. It is based on research that demonstrates this weight range is associated with optimal outcomes, including reduced risks of preterm birth, low birth weight, and gestational complications.

Weight gain within this range acknowledges the fact that a portion of the total weight gain will be attributed to factors such as the growing fetus, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, and changes in breast tissue. Gaining within the recommended range helps ensure that the infant has sufficient resources for healthy growth while minimizing excessive weight gain that could lead to complications during or after pregnancy.

The other options fall outside this recommended range for women of ideal body weight, highlighting either insufficient weight gain or excessive gain, which may pose risks to both maternal and fetal health.