Obstetricians today release new guidance for overweight women who become pregnant – setting out how they can improve their health before their baby is born.
The advice follows growing concern about the extent of the problem of obese mothers – who face a range of increased risks along with their babies. They also risk complications during labour.
Official UK guidance tells women they do not need to "eat for two" during pregnancy.
The latest advice says women do not need to eat extra during the first six months of pregnancy. But in the last three months, they need to increase their eating by 200 kcal a day.
The advice comes from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
It warns that being overweight – with a body mass index greater than 25 – increases risk and obesity aggravates it even more.
The experts look at how women can exercise during pregnancy and the benefits of some vitamin supplements.
Philippa Marsden, chair of the college’s patient information committee, said: "Trying to lose weight by dieting during pregnancy is not recommended – even if you are obese – as it may harm the health of your unborn baby.
"However, by making healthy changes to your diet you may not gain any weight during pregnancy and you may even lose a small amount.
"Healthcare professionals can also help you with losing weight if you are planning for a future pregnancy or after you have had your baby."
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