24-Week Checkup

Went for my 24-week checkup today, and the doctor said everything was progressing normally and healthfully with Baby Bean.

I, on the other hand, have gained about 25 pounds—the amount she wanted me to gain total for the whole pregnancy.

I'm of two minds about this. First, I was upset and depressed. Weight has always been an issue for me, and the very last thing I want in all the world is a) to be unhealthy while carrying Bean or b) to gain a ton of weight that I will have to worry about losing after the baby is born.

But second, I'm not sure how to feel about this. The doctor is basing this ideal weight gain number on my BMI at my first appointment. I looked it up, and my BMI at that time was 25; 25 is the beginning of the overweight category.

But really, what's the difference between a 24 and a 25? If I had been 5 pounds lighter at my first appointment, would she be telling me I'd gained too much weight?

Finally (I guess I'm of three minds), I don't know exactly what she wants me to do about it. I was told not to diet under any circumstances. I was told to eat healthfully, which I believe I am. I was told to get some exercise. Which—OK, I could get some more, but I am getting SOME.

So, all in all, I'm trying not to get too upset about it and reminding myself that I'm going to keep gaining weight regardless as the Bean grows. It's still a little hard to wrap my brain around, though.