Although low birth weight is indeed a common problem in Indian pregnancies, knowing the reasons will help you take positive steps to support your baby’s growth.
In this article:
What Does “Underweight Baby” Actually Mean?
A baby is considered underweight if their birth weight is less than 2.5 kg (2500 grams), even if they are delivered full-term. The condition is known as low birth weight (LBW).But why does it matter? Well, an underweight baby may face several challenges due to a weak immune system, slow early growth, or frequent infections. The good thing is that most of the causes are manageable with early care.
Why Are Underweight Babies More Common in India Compared to Other Countries?
India has one of the highest rates of low birth weight at around 18–20%, which is almost double the global average. Several reasons contribute to this trend.Is Poor Maternal Nutrition the Biggest Reason?
The major causes are insufficient nutrition intake before and during pregnancy. You may enter your pregnancy with any of the following problems:- Low BMI (below 18.5)
- Low iron and calcium levels
- Low protein intake
- Diets lacking in fruits, vegetables, and micronutrients
Does Anaemia Play a Big Role in Low Birth Weight?
Anaemia affects almost 50–60% of Indian pregnancy cases, which is one of the highest rates globally. Low haemoglobin leads to the following issues:- Your blood carries less oxygen
- Baby’s growth is affected
- Risk of preterm birth increases
How Do Lifestyle and Socioeconomic Factors Add to the Problem?
Lifestyle and social conditions affect a baby's weight in more ways than you may realise. These factors are commonly seen in India:- Skipping meals due to workload
- Late antenatal check-ups
- Stress and lack of rest
- Long working hours
- Limited awareness about pregnancy nutrition
- Poor access to healthcare in non-metro areas
Does Being Underweight Before Pregnancy Increase Risk?
The chances of your baby being underweight are high if you enter pregnancy with low body weight due to the following reasons:- Low muscle mass
- Low fat reserves
- Lack of essential vitamins
- Irregular eating patterns
Can Medical Conditions Increase the Risk?
Several conditions are also common in Indian pregnancies that may contribute to low birth weight.- High blood pressure
- Thyroid imbalances
- Gestational diabetes
- Infections
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Preeclampsia
Are You Missing Warning Signs Without Realising It?
You may not be aware that your baby is not gaining enough weight. So, here are the early signs to watch for during pregnancy:- Slow or no increase in your belly size
- Baby’s reduced movements in the third trimester
- Feeling tired or breathless frequently
- Very low appetite
- Consistent low haemoglobin levels
- High blood pressure readings
What Practical Steps Can You Take to Reduce the Risk?
Here are the simple steps to follow:1. Eat Balanced Meals Regularly
Include the following nutrients in your meals:
- Protein (dal, eggs, paneer, chicken)
- Iron (green leafy vegetables, jaggery, ragi)
- Healthy fats (ghee in moderate amounts, nuts)
- Fibre (fruits, vegetables)
Folic acid, iron, and calcium are essential for your baby, so never miss taking them.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink at least 2–3 litres of water daily unless your doctor advises otherwise.
4. Do Light Exercise
Walking for 20–30 minutes improves blood flow to the baby.
5. Attend All Doctor Appointments
Growth scans, blood tests, and check-ups are a huge part of checking your baby’s weight.
6. Manage Stress
Any problem during pregnancy may feel like a big thing. So, lean on your partner or family, practice relaxation, and take breaks when needed.
What Should You Do Next? A Simple Checklist
- Get your haemoglobin level checked regularly
- Eat 3 main meals along with 2 small snacks
- Include protein in every meal
- Avoid long gaps between meals
- Track weight gain during pregnancy
- Ask your doctor about fetal growth at each scan
- Make time for rest and sleep
Emotional & Social Aspects You Shouldn’t Ignore
Knowing your baby may be underweight can make you worry about their health. Talk with your partner about how they can support you to get through this. After all, they are a part of this journey, too. You can ask family for help with chores, emotional support, or to accompany you to check-ups.Underweight babies are more common in India due to a mix of nutritional, medical, lifestyle, and social reasons. You can take steps on time when you understand the factors that affect your baby’s weight to improve the growth. Now, giving your baby a strong and healthy start is possible with the right care, nutrition, and correct medical guidance.
FAQs on Why Underweight Babies Are More Common in Indian Pregnancies?
- Can you increase your baby’s weight in the last trimester?
Your baby gains most of the weight in the last trimester. You can support a healthy weight with proper nutrition, supplements and regular check-ups. - Is it normal for Indian babies to be smaller at birth?
Although babies in India may have below-average birth weight, anything below 2.5 kg is not normal and requires immediate attention. - Does low birth weight always mean health problems?
Your baby may catch up on their weight with proper feeding and care. You should still be ready for early monitoring to avoid future health risks.
