Advice about weight gain during pregnancy and actual weight gain.

In the 1980 National Natality Survey, married mothers were asked whether their doctors had suggested a weight gain limit during pregnancy and, if so, what limit was suggested. Current obstetric recommendations call for 22-27 pound weight gain. Previous research indicates that gaining less than 16 pounds greatly increases the likelihood of a poor pregnancy outcome. Reported advice varied by mother's race, education, parity, and prepregnancy weight. Mothers given no advice or advised to gain less than 22 pounds were far more likely than others to have an inadequate gain. The findings suggest that many more women should be told that it is appropriate to gain at least 22 pounds.