If you want to lose weight, shedding a few pounds before getting pregnant is definitely recommended. Here is everything you need to know about weight and pregnancy.
Excess weight during pregnancy increases the risk of developing certain problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, preeclampsia, and miscarriage. And according to many experts, there is also a link between the decrease in female fertility and obesity.
What is a healthy weight?
Healthcare professionals agree you have better chances of a problem-free pregnancy if you are at a healthy body weight. Usually, that means having a body mass index (BMI) of between 18.5 and 25. The BMI takes into account the height and weight of a person with the formula kg/m2 (number of kilos divided by metric height squared). Automatic BMI calculators can be found on the Web. So, a woman who weighs 70 kg and whose height is 1.70 m would have a BMI of 24.2, which is within the healthy range. However, a woman of the same height weighing 80 kg would have a BMI of 27.6, which is slightly too high.
How should I lose weight before getting pregnant?
- Start exercising right away. Set a goal to reach your healthy weight and stand by it as best you can. To start off, try walking, swimming, cycling, or aerobics. Speak to a health professional about the type of exercise that suits you best.
- Take up a relaxation technique such as yoga, which reduces stress and is also useful during delivery.
- Opt for a well-balanced diet that is based on Canada’s Food Guide. Make sure it consists of whole, healthy foods, and keep your portions small.
- Get enough sleep; a minimum of eight hours every night is recommended to be in top shape.
- Keep a positive attitude. Consider hiring a nutritionist or a personal trainer to help you reach your goals.
Healthy, controlled weight loss
Cheer up; losing weight doesn’t mean you have to deprive yourself. You can keep enjoying food if you practice moderation. Sure, it’s better to lose the weight before getting pregnant, but there’s no need to become obsessive about dieting. Losing weight too quickly could also be dangerous to your health—and to the health of your baby.
Speak to a healthcare professional
The right answer to the question “Should I lose weight before getting pregnant?” is this: discuss your situation with a health professional. In fact, it’s a good idea for all women to consult a doctor before becoming pregnant, so as to detect any medical conditions that could hinder conception.
