third trimester -- not gaining enough weight?

[Anonymous]

I'm in my third trimester with my 2nd child, at about 31 weeks. I've only gained ten pounds with this pregnancy. Last time, I had gained about 17 by this point and had a pretty normal overall weight gain of about 25-30 pounds.

I just saw my dr. who says she is not concerned yet at this point, but will check again in two weeks and hopes I've gained several pounds. She didn't want to order an ultrasound until after the next appt. and says the baby appears to be measuring normally based on her measurements of my stomach.

I can't help but be nervous as this just seems strange. I should add that I never had nausea with either pregnancy so have been eating normally and generally have a pretty hearty appetite. I try to eat somewhat healthy, but I'm hardly extreme and indulge in plenty of treats like thai food, cookies, etc...Also, other than keeping up with my toddler, I can't say I've been exercising at all so it's not that preventing me from gaining weight.

Has anyone had a similar experience. I'm really nervous as it's not as if I've been trying to keep the weight off, skipping meals or the like.

[Anonymous]

I am 35 weeks with #3 and have gained less than my other two. With my first I gained about 30 lbs, my second was 25 lbs and with this one I have only gained about 16 so far. Like you, I have been eating normally and exercising (well, walking!) as I usually do.

I attribute it to having two young kids at home. I can't eat anything without two kids saying "can I have a bite mommy?" so it really limits my over-eating! An forget about having anything sweet until after they go to bed if I hope to get any of it. I also have had no swelling yet which I had a lot of with #1.

I wouldn't be concerned yet, especially if your doctor isn't. Keep eating well and taking prenatals. If you haven't gained any more in a couple weeks request an ultrasound. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

I am in my 32nd week with my second, and have put on only about 12 lbs. I gained about 25 lbs with the first. I think it's totally normal not to put on as much weight with the second pregnancy. My doctor is not at all concerned, and is, in fact, pleased with the weight gain. I think I eat a lot, but the calories seem to burn off with chasing after my 15-month old.... I do feel a little more tired than with the first, but I also understand that that is normal. I would not worry too much about it, and look forward to the fact that you'll have less to take off after birth. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

I'm very close to the end of the 2nd tri with my 2nd child. This time around I gained more weight early on and certainly looked pregnant much earlier; the past few weeks my weight seems to have steadied though. I'm not concerned as OB said all looks good. If you continue to be concerned, I think you should call your OB and perhaps schedule a visit; a little reassurance that all is on track can alleviate worry/stress which certainly is not good for you and baby.