That depends, say the experts, on a number of things including how high your body mass index was before getting pregnant.

Women with higher pre-pregnancy BMIs (BMI > 27) are at greater risk of higher weight retention at one year postpartum, says a Canadian government health agency.

According to Health Canada, the majority of women studied weighed 1 to 2 kg more than their pre-pregnancy weight one year after the birth of their baby. Another 20 to 30 percent of women weighed 4 to 5 kg more than their pre-pregnancy weight.

Lets face it, reducing your BMI after pregnancy isnt easy

If you are struggling to reduce your BMI after pregnancy, you are not alone. Try to keep in mind that it took almost a year for your baby to grown and your body to stretch, so be kind to yourself and remember the weight gain brought you a beautiful bundle of joy. Here are some tips for feeling great after pregnancy:

• Breastfeed your baby as long as possible its good for the baby and helps you lose weight
• Eat nutritious foods
• Make time for exercise
• Try to rest as much as possible
• Dont forget to enjoy your beautiful baby!

On the other hand, women with a low pre-pregnancy BMI (< 20) are encouraged to gain more weight during pregnancy because they tend to have lower weight babies. Heres the guideline for Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy Based on Pre-Pregnancy Body Mass Index:

BMI Chart Ideal Weight Gain

< 20 28 - 40 pounds

20 to 25 25 - 35 pounds

25 to 30 15 - 25 pounds

> 30 (obese) 15 pounds

Please note that this guideline does not apply to multiple birth pregnancies and the BMI chart refers to pre-pregnancy levels only. BMI during pregnancy is not relevant. Always consult your physician.