Weight Stabilization

Pregnant women typically gain the most weight during the third trimester of Pregnancy. By the third trimester the anatomy of the fetus has formed and continues to grow and strengthen.

Here are a few reasons why weight gain may be more significant in those last few weeks of pregnancy:

- Increased Blood Volume
- Increased Amniotic Fluid
- Larger Placenta
- Larger Uterus
- Baby Gaining Weight
- Water Retention

Weight gain usually remains steady up to the 38th week of pregnancy. In the final weeks of pregnancy the number of pounds you gain on a weekly basis should lessen. Eventually, it should plateau. You may even lose weight during the last 2 to 3 weeks gestation. Halleluliah!

This is called Weight Stabilization. Weight Stabilization is a good thing, it means that your body is stabilizing. The baby's growth is nearly complete and labor is just around the corner. This is one of the more reliable signs that your body is preparing for birth.

It's important to note that weight stabilization may not occur until the 40th or 42nd week of pregnancy for some women. Which is okay, but often indicates that labor will mostly likely initiate a little later in the pregnancy.