Q: What are the risk factors for gestational diabetes?

Key GDM risk factors include age over 35, BMI over 25, family history of type 2 diabetes, previous gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain ethnic backgrounds. Standard OGTT screening occurs at 24–28 weeks; high-risk patients may be screened earlier. Our GDM Risk Calculator uses a scoring model to estimate your risk level.

Q: What nutrients are most important during pregnancy?

ACOG highlights folate (400–800 mcg/day to prevent neural tube defects), iron (27 mg/day), calcium (1,000 mg/day), DHA (200 mg/day for brain development), and iodine (220 mcg/day). Protein needs increase to about 71 g/day in the second and third trimesters. Our Pregnancy Nutrition Calculator provides personalized daily targets.

Q: Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?

Yes — ACOG recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for most pregnant women. The Karvonen target heart rate formula (using a modified rate of perceived exertion) keeps intensity in a safe zone. Activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are generally safe. Our Pregnancy Exercise Calculator determines your personalized safe heart rate zone.

Question 1

How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

The IOM (Institute of Medicine) recommends different weight gain ranges based on your pre-pregnancy BMI. Underweight (BMI <18.5): 28–40 lbs. Normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9): 25–35 lbs. Overweight (BMI 25–29.9): 15–25 lbs. Obese (BMI ≥30): 11–20 lbs. Our Pregnancy Weight Gain Calculator tracks your progress against the IOM corridor throughout your pregnancy.

Question 2

What are the risk factors for gestational diabetes?

Accepted Answer

Key GDM risk factors include age over 35, BMI over 25, family history of type 2 diabetes, previous gestational diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and certain ethnic backgrounds. Standard OGTT screening occurs at 24–28 weeks; high-risk patients may be screened earlier. Our GDM Risk Calculator uses a scoring model to estimate your risk level.

Question 3

What nutrients are most important during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

ACOG highlights folate (400–800 mcg/day to prevent neural tube defects), iron (27 mg/day), calcium (1,000 mg/day), DHA (200 mg/day for brain development), and iodine (220 mcg/day). Protein needs increase to about 71 g/day in the second and third trimesters. Our Pregnancy Nutrition Calculator provides personalized daily targets.

Question 4

Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — ACOG recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for most pregnant women. The Karvonen target heart rate formula (using a modified rate of perceived exertion) keeps intensity in a safe zone. Activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are generally safe. Our Pregnancy Exercise Calculator determines your personalized safe heart rate zone.

Pregnancy Health Calculators & Guides

Calculators

Guides

Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy: IOM Guidelines Explained

Gestational Diabetes: Risk Factors and Screening

Pregnancy Nutrition: Essential Nutrients by Trimester

Safe Exercise During Pregnancy: Heart Rate Zones and Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

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