Question:
I am 12 wks pregnant (down 100 lbs) 5'4, 219 lbs. At what point...

should I begin to be visibly pregnant? This is my first pregnancy, and I have heard if you are overweight, it takes longer to "show". Also at what point am I supposed to buy maternity clothes? Thanks in advance. : )    — J. W. (posted on June 9, 2003)

June 9, 2003
Everyone is different, so you'll just have to wait and see. As for buying maternity clothes, unless you are very well-off financially, I wouldn't buy anything until you absolutely need it! I mean.....you've lost 100 lbs., so you must have some clothing that is too big for you, so you can wear that as long as you can. Of course, some pretty maternity clothing will make you feel good, too! I would like to point out one important thing though....hopefully you have already talked to a nutrition counselor about your diet. During the first few months, it is my understanding that it is important to increase your fat intake since this is imperative to the development of the baby's neurological system. Many doctors will give advice, but you should see a nutritionist....THEY are the specialists and doctors don't know everything there is to know about diet during pregnancy, especially with someone who's had their digestive system altered. Good luck to you!
   — Lynette B.

June 9, 2003
My youngest is 9 months old. I am a lot heavier than you probably about 350 when I became pregnant. I did not show until about seven months, and even then some people just thought I had gotten fatter. I think it kind of depends on how you carry your weight. If you have a semi flat stomach it will show earlier.
   — Trin2rilax Cheryl McCoy

June 9, 2003
I was 190 when I got pregnant with my first child. I didn't show until about halfway through my sixth month, then BOOM there was no hiding it! I loved being pregnant and hope you enjoy yours as much - congratulations!
   — Mendi M.

June 10, 2003
So much depends on your body type. I know a gal that was 5'10 and 130ish pounds and didn't show much at all with her first one until month 7! I was 210 when I got pregnant with my first one and by 13-16 weeks it was obvious I was pregnant. Like so many things with pregnancy, and life, your just going to have to 'wait and see'. As far as buying maternity clothes...you could/should start 'shopping' a bit now and picking up pieces for the summer...either bigger plus size or maternity. Eventually, there weill come a point when your clothes become uncomfortable or tight and you will have to find other options. Good luck with the pregnancy!
   — eaamc

June 10, 2003
with my first child I weighed 105 lbs when I delivered and I did not start showing until 6.5 months along. With my 3rd and 4th children I was over 200 at delivery and I started showing at 4 months. By the way 4 months is about when you should start to show.
   — hooterzgirl75

June 10, 2003
As far as showing I couldn't tell ya. It was different for each of mine. As far as maternity clothes, I totally agree with a previous poster...they are expensive. I just wore shirts and skirts that were a little big until I had no choice. Or if I wanted to go somewhere nice, I would pick up an outfit. The one thing I TOTALLY suggest, is maternity panties. I know it sounds silly, but I got to a point where anything on my waist drove me up a wall. The maternity panties are HUGE!! they can stretch up to right under your boobs, but you will totally appreciate it!! Good luck and God bless!! -Ann
   — Ann H.

June 12, 2003
I was 220-260 with all three of my pregnancies... an I got by with a couple of maternity tees and I could wear most of my stretch pants the whole time. I defnitely looked pregnant, but I think being overweight to start with makes it harder to tell earlier on. And it all depends on what is comfy to you, I liked having my pants and panties under my tummy, and just rolled the waist a little...but if you hate that feeling, then defnitely get a few maternity things! And check out Ebay! There are often whole lots of seasonal maternity clothes that someone has only worn for one pregnancy, and you can save quite a bit of money this way! Good luck & Congratulations!
   — Cher B.