Is slower weight gain normal near your due date?

Yes. Growth can naturally slow as your baby focuses on final development.

Should you worry if movements feel different?

Reduced movement should always be checked immediately. It’s an important sign of well-being.

Can babies catch up on weight before birth?

Yes. Many babies improve within one to two weeks with proper monitoring and care.

Why Baby Weight Drops Are Rare but Possible in Late Pregnancy

When you reach the final weeks of pregnancy, you expect your baby to grow rapidly as you get closer to delivery. So hearing that your baby’s weight has dropped, or hasn’t increased enough, can feel alarming. But before you panic, it’s important to understand that while baby weight drops are uncommon, they can happen, and most cases can be managed when identified early.

Why Baby Weight Drops Are Rare but Possible in Late Pregnancy

When you reach the last trimester, you often picture your baby gaining weight quickly in preparation for birth. That is why being told that your baby has not gained enough weight or has slightly dropped on the growth chart can feel alarming.

Before you start worrying, it helps to understand that, while this situation is rare, doctors do encounter it. When identified early, it is usually manageable and often correctable.

What Does a Baby's Weight Drop Mean?

A routine ultrasound normally shows the baby losing weight or gaining weight slowly. The baby may demonstrate the following instead of the usual growth curve:

Weight gain at a slower rate
No increase in weight
A slight decrease in estimated weight

To put it differently, babies typically put on around 200-250 grams each week during the late pregnancy period. A small deviation does not always signal a problem, but it does require attention.

Why Are Weight Drops Uncommon in the Third Trimester?

Growth tends to be strong during this stage because:
The placenta is usually functioning at its best.
Your baby is storing fat for temperature regulation after birth.
Nutrient needs are high and consistently supplied.

This is why noticeable weight drops are not typical. When they do occur, there is usually an identifiable cause.

What Factors Can Cause a Baby’s Weight to Drop?

1. Nutritional Gaps in Your Diet
Your nutritional intake directly affects the nutrients your baby receives. In case of the following, your growth might be slower than usual:

You have been taking in less food because of nausea or indigestion.
You have lost weight without noticing.
Your iron levels have decreased.
You are consuming meals with little or no protein or healthy fats.

Filling these gaps usually leads to growth stabilisation.

Always consult your doctor before making any major changes to your diet, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy.

2. Low Amniotic Fluid Levels
Low fluid, which is known as oligohydramnios, can be a factor that restricts the movement of your baby in a comfortable way. It may also indicate the placenta is not working at its full capacity. Both can influence growth.

3. An Underlying Infection
Even a mild infection can momentarily impact the placenta or your baby’s growth. Your doctor may recommend tests if any symptoms appear.

4. Stress or Overexertion
High levels of stress increase cortisol levels within your body. The hormone may indirectly affect the baby's growth and development by altering blood flow. Overexerting yourself due to excessive working hours, lack of sleep, or emotional stress may contribute to the baby's slow development.

5. Natural Genetic Build of Your Baby
Sometimes, a baby is small simply because you or your partner has a smaller frame. This is normal and nothing to worry about. In cases like this, doctors do see good blood flow and steady development, but with lower weight.

What Signs Could Indicate Slower Growth?

You may not always feel any physical symptoms, but you may notice:

Reduced or less frequent baby movements
Your bump is measuring smaller than expected during check-ups
Your weight has suddenly dropped
A feeling of tightness or a slightly smaller bump (less common)

Always inform your doctor if you notice a reduction in movements.

How Can You Support Your Baby's Growth?

These can be steps to support growth, but they should complement, not replace, medical care.

1. Enhance Your Everyday Nutrition
Give priority to intake that is well-balanced for the entire day. Consider the following:

Eggs, milk and cheese, lentils, or poultry
Dried fruits and nuts
Foods that are high in iron, such as spinach or jaggery
Good fats include peanut butter and a little ghee
Eating every 2-3 hours helps maintain a steady source of nutrients.

2. Keep Your Body Hydrated
Adequate water intake maintains amniotic fluid volume and promotes nutrient flow. Take small sips of water at frequent intervals rather than taking large gulps.

3. Rest More Than Usual
The last trimester is the time when your body needs the most rest, as it is working extra hard. Try:

Short afternoon naps
Light stretching
Reduction of long hours of standing or heavy chores

Rest is a source of power for the baby's growth and stress relief for the mother.

4. Track Your Baby's Movements
Your baby's activity level is one of the best signs of their health.

When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Help?

You should contact your physician or go to an emergency department if:

You notice a decrease in the movement of your unborn baby.
You experience excessive or frequent belly pain.
You have an abrupt swelling of your body and/or high blood pressure.
You have had vaginal blood flow.
You have had severe headaches accompanied by visual disturbances.

What Should You Do Next? Practical Checklist

Track your baby’s movements daily.
Attend all the growth scans, NSTs, and scheduled check-ups.
Eat balanced mini-meals throughout the day.
Drink water regularly.
Prioritise rest.

Emotional and Social Impact

To hear that your baby has dipped in weight can be rather anxiety-evoking, fearful, or even guilt-inducing. These feelings are normal. Keep in mind that most causes of slowed growth are beyond your control.

Reaching out to your partner, family, or a friend can ease some of the emotional pressure. When you feel supported, your body relaxes, which naturally benefits your baby.

A baby’s weight dropping in late pregnancy is rare, but it can happen. Possible causes of growth retardation include decreased placental function, nutritional or fluid deficits, stress (physical, emotional/psychological, or environmental), or genetics (family history). The possible causes of growth retardation can be monitored through appropriate evaluation to ensure growth continues, with proper nutrition, sufficient rest, and emotional support. By staying aware of changes, attending all appointments, and keeping close communication with your healthcare provider, you can approach the final weeks of pregnancy with confidence.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Baby Weight Drops Are Rare but Possible in Late Pregnancy?

Is slower weight gain normal near your due date?
Yes. Growth can naturally slow as your baby focuses on final development.
Should you worry if movements feel different?
Reduced movement should always be checked immediately. It’s an important sign of well-being.
Can babies catch up on weight before birth?
Yes. Many babies improve within one to two weeks with proper monitoring and care.