Are heart rate differences linked to the baby’s gender and weight gain?

No. The idea that girls have faster heart rates than boys is a common myth. Fetal heart rate has no connection to the baby’s gender or how much weight you gain.

Is it normal to gain weight faster in the second trimester?

The majority of weight gain occurs in the second trimester of pregnancy, which continues into the early third trimester as the baby grows rapidly.

Can carrying a boy or a girl change how hungry you feel?

Not scientifically. Appetite changes come from hormonal shifts and metabolism, not from whether the baby is a boy or a girl.

Why Women Carrying Boys vs Girls Sometimes See Different Weight Patterns

Pregnancy can lead to unpredictable weight gain or loss. You may have heard that carrying a boy will make you gain weight differently, or that you may gain more fat if you are pregnant with a girl. Although these are just beliefs, some weight gain patterns have logical explanations.

Understanding why weight varies and what it means for your pregnancy will help you stay informed and prepared for these changes.

Does Your Baby’s Gender Affect Your Weight Gain?

Carrying boys leads to greater weight gain around your abdomen, while carrying girls leads to all-over weight gain. This is what you hear people say, but is it true?

Why Do Some Women Gain More Weight with Boys?

Here are a few reasons this happened.

1. Do Baby Boys Tend To Be Slightly Bigger?
Studies show that baby boys weigh around 100-150 grams more on average at birth. This means the following things:

A heavier placenta
More amniotic fluid
A bigger baby

These differences are small enough to make no difference, but they add up to your weight.

2. Does Your Body Burn More Energy With Boys?
Your body may use more calories when you carry a boy because they grow faster, according to research. You may feel hungrier due to increased energy levels, leading to greater weight gain.

3. Are Hormone Levels Different in Boys?
You may have higher pregnancy hormones when you carry a boy. It can influence your appetite and the way your body stores fat.

Why Do Some Women Gain More Weight With Girls?

You may gain more weight if you carry a girl due to the following reasons:

1. Do Girl Pregnancies Cause More Nausea?
You may have higher hCG levels when carrying a girl, which can increase morning sickness. You may lose weight early in pregnancy, but you may gain more in later stages because nausea can make you crave sugary or high-carb foods.

2. Does Your Body Store More Fat in Girls?
Some studies show that carrying a girl may lead to slightly higher fat storage due to elevated oestrogen levels. It may lead to slight weight gain around the hips and thighs.

3. Are Cravings Different When Carrying Girls?
You may crave sweets more when carrying girls, which may contribute to extra weight gain without you realising it.

Are These Differences Always Noticeable?

You may not see any clear difference because the weight pattern depends on many other factors.

Your metabolism
Pre-pregnancy weight
Eating habits
Physical activity
Stress levels
Sleep habits
Genetics

What Are the Healthy Weight Gain Ranges During Pregnancy?

It depends on your pre-pregnancy BMI.

Underweight: 12.5 to 18 kg
Normal weight: 11.5 to 16 kg
Overweight: 7 to 11.5 kg
Obese: 5 to 9 kg

What Signs Should You Watch Out For?

Weight gain is inevitable in pregnancy, but higher gain is a problem.

Sudden weight gain (more than 1–2 kg in a week)
Swelling on the face and hands
Severe headache
Blurry vision
Right-sided upper abdominal pain

How Can You Maintain Healthy Weight Gain Regardless of Gender?

You can control your health habits, so maintaining them will be more helpful for a smooth pregnancy.

1. Eat Balanced, Small Meals

Fresh fruits
Vegetables
Whole grains
Protein-rich foods
Healthy fats

Consume smaller portions to avoid overeating, but eat frequently.

2. Stay Active With Safe Exercises

Walking, prenatal yoga, and stretching can help you maintain a stable weight and reduce back pain and swelling.

3. Keep Yourself Well Hydrated
Water helps digestion, reduces bloating, and prevents unnecessary weight spikes from water retention.

4. Monitor Your Weight Regularly
Tracking your weight weekly helps you notice changes early.

5. Prioritise Sleep and Rest
Poor sleep can alter your hormones, increasing cravings.

How Do Emotional and Social Factors Affect Weight?

Pregnancy does not cause changes only in your body, but also in your emotions. The following are common experiences:

You may feel hungrier when stressed
You may feel supported when your partner helps with meals and routine
You may feel less overwhelmed when family members share responsibilities

What Can You Do Next? A Simple Checklist

The following guide can help you move forward:

Track your weight once a week
Maintain balanced meals
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Do light exercise 4–5 times a week
Discuss any sudden changes with your doctor
Seek emotional support when needed

Weight gain during pregnancy is natural, and you may observe differences when carrying boys versus girls. These changes are small and influenced by many factors. You can focus on your overall health, daily habits, and feelings in such times, rather than on gender. You can enjoy a healthy and comfortable pregnancy with the right care, no matter what you are expecting.

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 Women Carrying Boys vs Girls Sometimes See Different Weight Patterns?

Are heart rate differences linked to the baby’s gender and weight gain?
No. The idea that girls have faster heart rates than boys is a common myth. Fetal heart rate has no connection to the baby’s gender or how much weight you gain.
Is it normal to gain weight faster in the second trimester?
The majority of weight gain occurs in the second trimester of pregnancy, which continues into the early third trimester as the baby grows rapidly.
Can carrying a boy or a girl change how hungry you feel?
Not scientifically. Appetite changes come from hormonal shifts and metabolism, not from whether the baby is a boy or a girl.