College

Four women are admitted to Labor and Delivery. Which woman met the goal for a healthy weight gain in pregnancy?

A. 17 years old, 5'2" tall, initial weight 116 pounds, today's weight 120 pounds
B. 22 years old, 5'2" tall, initial weight 230 pounds, today's weight 245 pounds
C. 24 years old, 5'3" tall, initial weight 135 pounds, today's weight 182 pounds
D. 27 years old, 5'6" tall, initial weight 112 pounds, today's weight 135 pounds

Answer :

Final answer:

The 27-year-old who gained 23 pounds during her pregnancy is the one who met the goal for a healthy weight gain, as this aligns with the recommended 25 to 35 pounds total weight gain for individuals of a normal initial weight. The woman who met the goal for a healthy weight gain in pregnancy is option d, the 27-year-old who gained 23 pounds.

Explanation:

To determine which woman met the goal for a healthy weight gain in pregnancy, let's analyze the weight gain guidelines. During the first trimester, there is an expected weight gain of approximately 1 lb per month. From the second trimester onwards, the average weight gain is about 1 lb per week due to an increased intake of 300 calories per day. Now, let's evaluate each option based on these guidelines:

  • a. Gained 4 pounds - Given her initial weight, a healthy weight gain should be around 25 to 35 pounds for the entire pregnancy. Her gain is too low for a healthy pregnancy.
  • b. Gained 15 pounds - Considering her initial high weight, her pregnancy weight gain should be on the lower end, but this still seems excessive and above the recommended gain for overweight individuals.
  • c. Gained 47 pounds - This is significantly above the recommended weight gain, indicating an unhealthy pregnancy weight gain.
  • d. Gained 23 pounds - This aligns more closely with the recommended weight gain of approximately 25 to 35 pounds for the entire pregnancy for someone of a normal initial weight, making it the healthiest weight gain among the options.

Therefore, the woman who met the goal for a healthy weight gain in pregnancy is option d, the 27-year-old who gained 23 pounds.