BMI Calculator
What is a body mass index (BMI)?
The Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator calculates your BMI and lets you know if your weight is optimal. When compared to your weight in pounds (or kilograms), the BMI gives you a much better idea about your actual weight. It is the measurement of choice for many physicians and researchers studying obesity. The BMI is calculated with a mathematical formula which takes into account not just a person's weight but also height. The BMI equals a person's weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared. (BMI=kg/m2). Calculating your BMI before and during pregnancy is especially important as extremes of BMI (too high or too low) may affect your fertility and increase pregnancy complications.
In May of 2009, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) issued new guidelines on weight gain during pregnancy. Pregnancy weight gain is healthy because the baby, the uterus, the placenta, the amniotic fluid need to grow. Your baby's growth and development depend on you gaining adequate weight. Not everyone gains exactly the same amount and how much weight gain you need depends on various factors, including your pre-pregnancy weight and body mass index (BMI). Your health and your baby's health also play a role. Work with your doctor to determine what's right for you.
