How Much Weight Does A Woman Lose When Giving Birth?

Pregnancy puts a great amount of strain on a woman's body. During a nine-month pregnancy, a woman endures many physical, emotional and hormonal changes. One major concern among many pregnant women is whether or not they will return to their pre-pregnancy weight. According to Babycenter.com, new moms should expect to lose on average of 12 pounds immediately after giving birth. Although not every woman gains the same amount of weight during pregnancy, the baby and its support system are definitely removed at the end of a full-term pregnancy.

Baby Weight

The average newborn baby weighs between 7 and 8 pounds upon delivery. The weight of the baby makes up only a portion of the total amount of weight gained (plus or minus 25 to 35 pounds) during the course of a nine-month pregnancy .

Placenta

The placenta is a flat-shaped organ that produces common pregnancy hormones, known as estrogen and progesterone. The placenta is attached to the baby by the umbilical cord and is the home of maternal blood used to supply the baby with nutrients from the mother. Moreover, the placenta is delivered after the birth of the baby and typically weighs between 1 and 2 pounds, according to Babycenter.com.

Uterus

The uterus is a muscle that contracts during labor to help expel the baby. Glands outline the uterus and grow thicker as hormones are released by the ovaries. According to "Pregnancy Today," when a woman becomes pregnant, blood flow increases to the uterus, causing the muscle to grow in size as the baby grows. Additionally, by the time a woman is ready to give birth, the uterus weighs around 2 pounds.

Amniotic Fluids

During pregnancy, a woman's uterus is filled with amniotic fluid to help protect the baby and enable it to move around and grow. In addition, the amniotic fluid contains urine released by the baby. As you near closer to your due date, the amount of amniotic fluid decreases in volume as your body prepares for the birth of the baby. Once the baby is delivered, about 2 pounds of amniotic fluid is discharged.

Weight Loss After Birth

Women gradually lose additional weight weeks and even months after the birth of the baby. According to the American Pregnancy Association, during pregnancy, a woman can expect to gain at least 7 pounds of maternal fat and nutrient stores, 4 pounds of blood, 2 pounds of maternal tissue, and 4 pounds of fluid in maternal tissue---in addition to the weight of the baby, amniotic fluid, uterus and placenta). Additionally, every woman's body responds differently to pregnancy. Some lose most of their baby weight within the first 6 months; others may take up to one year after having the baby before they return to their pre-pregnancy weight. The key to shedding the extra weight gained during pregnancy is to incorporate good nutritional habits and engage in regular exercise.