Pregnant women gain weight when they underestimate it

Women who underestimate their weight are likely to gain more weight than those who correctly identify their Body Mass Index (BMI).

A study analysing more than 400 South Australian women found that only 26% correctly identified their BMI while 70% underestimated it.

With previous research showing women are healthier if they believe their health is at risk, the researchers are calling for clinicians to better deliver weight-related messages to women during pregnancy.

Obesity and weight gain pose numerous health risks for mother and child.