ICD-10: O26.13

The ICD-10 code O26.13 refers specifically to "Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester." This code is part of a broader classification system used for documenting and coding various health conditions related to pregnancy. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this code:

Alternative Names

1. Inadequate Weight Gain in Late Pregnancy: This term emphasizes the insufficiency of weight gain during the later stages of pregnancy.
2. Insufficient Weight Gain in Third Trimester: Similar to the above, this phrase highlights the lack of adequate weight gain specifically in the third trimester.
3. Low Gestational Weight Gain: This term can be used more generally to describe insufficient weight gain during any stage of pregnancy, but it is often associated with the third trimester when discussing O26.13.

Related Terms

1. Gestational Weight Gain: This refers to the total weight gained during pregnancy, which is a critical factor for maternal and fetal health.
2. Maternal Underweight: This term describes a condition where a pregnant woman has a body mass index (BMI) that is considered underweight, which can contribute to low weight gain.
3. Pregnancy Complications: Low weight gain can be a sign of underlying complications during pregnancy, which may require further medical evaluation.
4. Nutritional Deficiency in Pregnancy: This term relates to inadequate dietary intake that can lead to insufficient weight gain during pregnancy.
5. ICD-10-CM Code O26: This is the broader category under which O26.13 falls, encompassing various conditions related to maternal care during pregnancy.

Clinical Context

Low weight gain in the third trimester can have significant implications for both maternal and fetal health. It may be associated with risks such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental issues for the infant. Therefore, healthcare providers often monitor weight gain closely during this period and may provide nutritional counseling or interventions as needed.

In summary, while O26.13 specifically denotes low weight gain in the third trimester, it is related to various terms and concepts that highlight the importance of adequate weight gain for a healthy pregnancy outcome. Understanding these alternative names and related terms can aid healthcare professionals in communication and documentation regarding maternal health.

When discussing the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with ICD-10 code O26.13, which refers to "Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester," it is essential to understand the implications of inadequate weight gain during this critical period of gestation. Below is a detailed overview of these aspects.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Context

Low weight gain in pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester, is defined as insufficient weight gain relative to established guidelines for gestational age. This condition can have significant implications for both maternal and fetal health, potentially leading to complications such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and developmental issues in the newborn[1][2].

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of low weight gain in pregnancy can vary, but they often include:

• Inadequate Weight Gain: A weight gain that is below the recommended range for the third trimester, which is typically around 1 pound (0.45 kg) per week for women with a normal pre-pregnancy weight[3].
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Symptoms related to inadequate nutrition, such as fatigue, weakness, and potential signs of anemia (e.g., pallor, dizziness) may be present[4].
• Fetal Growth Concerns: Ultrasound assessments may reveal signs of fetal growth restriction, which can be indicated by smaller-than-expected measurements for gestational age[5].
• Maternal Health Issues: Conditions such as hyperemesis gravidarum (severe nausea and vomiting) or other gastrointestinal issues may contribute to low weight gain and can be associated with dehydration and electrolyte imbalances[6].

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

Patients experiencing low weight gain in the third trimester may present with various demographic characteristics, including:

• Age: Younger mothers, particularly adolescents, may be at higher risk for inadequate weight gain due to their ongoing growth and nutritional needs[7].
• Socioeconomic Status: Lower socioeconomic status can correlate with limited access to nutritious food, healthcare, and prenatal education, contributing to inadequate weight gain[8].
• Pre-existing Conditions: Women with pre-existing health conditions such as eating disorders, chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), or those who have undergone bariatric surgery may be more susceptible to low weight gain during pregnancy[9].

Behavioral Factors

Certain behaviors and lifestyle choices can also influence weight gain during pregnancy:

• Dietary Habits: Poor dietary choices, including low caloric intake or inadequate consumption of essential nutrients, can lead to insufficient weight gain[10].
• Physical Activity: High levels of physical activity without appropriate caloric compensation may contribute to low weight gain[11].
• Mental Health: Psychological factors, including stress, anxiety, or depression, can affect appetite and nutritional intake, leading to inadequate weight gain[12].

Conclusion

Low weight gain in pregnancy during the third trimester, as classified under ICD-10 code O26.13, is a significant concern that can affect both maternal and fetal health. Recognizing the clinical presentation, including signs and symptoms, as well as understanding the patient characteristics that contribute to this condition, is crucial for healthcare providers. Early identification and intervention can help mitigate risks and promote healthier outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Addressing nutritional needs, providing education, and offering support for underlying health issues are essential steps in managing this condition effectively.

References

1. Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester - ICD-10 Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester - ICD-10.
2. ICD-10-CM Code for Low weight gain in pregnancy O26.1.
3. 2024 April 1-ICD-10-CM Guidelines.
4. Pregnancy Weight Gain After Gastric Bypass or Sleeve.
5. Prematurity and congenital malformations differ according to gestational weight gain.
6. 2022 ICD-10-CM Guidelines.
7. 2025 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code O26.891.
8. FY2022 April1 update ICD-10-CM Guidelines.
9. 2025 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code R63.5: Abnormal weight gain.
10. A weight-gain-for-gestational-age z score chart for the third trimester.
11. 6 Defining characteristics aka Clinical Presentation What are the - Studocu.
12. PDF Focus on Clinical Presentation (00177519) - PT Management.

Low weight gain during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, is a significant concern that can impact both maternal and fetal health. The ICD-10 code O26.13 specifically refers to "Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester." Addressing this issue involves a multifaceted approach that includes nutritional, medical, and psychological interventions. Below, we explore standard treatment approaches for this condition.

Nutritional Interventions

1. Dietary Assessment and Counseling

• Individualized Nutrition Plans: Healthcare providers typically begin with a comprehensive dietary assessment to understand the patient's current eating habits. Based on this assessment, a registered dietitian can create a personalized nutrition plan that emphasizes calorie-dense, nutrient-rich foods to promote healthy weight gain[1].
• Increased Caloric Intake: Pregnant individuals may need to increase their caloric intake, focusing on healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Foods such as avocados, nuts, whole grains, and lean meats can be beneficial[2].

2. Supplementation

• Prenatal Vitamins: Ensuring adequate intake of essential vitamins and minerals, particularly folic acid, iron, and calcium, is crucial. If dietary intake is insufficient, healthcare providers may recommend specific supplements[3].
• Protein Supplements: In cases where dietary protein is low, protein shakes or bars may be suggested to help meet nutritional needs without overwhelming the patient with large meals[4].

Medical Monitoring

1. Regular Check-ups

• Weight Monitoring: Frequent monitoring of weight gain is essential to assess progress. Healthcare providers typically track weight at each prenatal visit to ensure that the patient is on the right path[5].
• Ultrasound Assessments: Ultrasounds may be used to monitor fetal growth and amniotic fluid levels, ensuring that the baby is developing appropriately despite the mother's low weight gain[6].

2. Addressing Underlying Conditions

• Medical Evaluation: If low weight gain is suspected to be due to underlying medical conditions (e.g., hyperemesis gravidarum, gestational diabetes), appropriate medical interventions should be initiated. This may include medication to manage nausea or other symptoms that hinder food intake[7].

Psychological Support

1. Mental Health Screening

• Assessing Mental Health: Low weight gain can sometimes be associated with psychological issues such as anxiety or depression. Screening for these conditions is vital, as they can affect appetite and overall well-being[8].
• Counseling Services: Referral to a mental health professional may be necessary for those experiencing significant emotional distress, which can help improve overall health and nutritional intake[9].

2. Support Groups

• Peer Support: Engaging in support groups for pregnant individuals can provide emotional support and practical advice, helping to alleviate stress and improve dietary habits through shared experiences[10].

Conclusion

Addressing low weight gain in pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, requires a comprehensive approach that includes nutritional counseling, medical monitoring, and psychological support. By focusing on individualized care and addressing both physical and emotional health, healthcare providers can help ensure better outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to the treatment plan are essential to meet the evolving needs of the patient throughout their pregnancy journey.

For further information or specific case management, consulting with healthcare professionals specializing in maternal-fetal medicine is recommended.

The ICD-10 code O26.13 specifically refers to "Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester." This diagnosis is part of the broader category of maternal care for conditions predominantly related to pregnancy, classified under Group O26. Below is a detailed clinical description and relevant information regarding this code.

Clinical Description

Definition

Low weight gain in pregnancy during the third trimester is characterized by insufficient weight gain in a pregnant woman, particularly in the final stages of pregnancy. This condition can have implications for both maternal and fetal health, potentially leading to complications such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and developmental issues in the newborn.

Diagnostic Criteria

The diagnosis of low weight gain in the third trimester is typically made based on the following criteria:
- Weight Gain Assessment: Monitoring the mother's weight gain throughout pregnancy, with specific attention to the third trimester (weeks 28 to 40). The recommended weight gain varies based on pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI):
- Underweight (BMI < 18.5): 28-40 pounds
- Normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9): 25-35 pounds
- Overweight (BMI 25-29.9): 15-25 pounds
- Obesity (BMI ≥ 30): 11-20 pounds

• Clinical Evaluation: Regular prenatal visits where healthcare providers assess weight gain trends, nutritional intake, and overall health status.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to low weight gain during the third trimester, including:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate caloric or nutrient intake can hinder proper weight gain.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions such as hyperemesis gravidarum (severe nausea and vomiting), gestational diabetes, or chronic illnesses can affect weight gain.
- Psychosocial Factors: Stress, anxiety, or depression may impact a woman's ability to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy.

Implications

Low weight gain in the third trimester can lead to several adverse outcomes, including:
- Fetal Growth Restriction: Insufficient weight gain may result in the fetus not receiving adequate nutrients, leading to low birth weight.
- Increased Risk of Complications: Both maternal and fetal health risks may increase, including preterm labor and delivery complications.

Management and Treatment

Management of low weight gain in pregnancy typically involves:
- Nutritional Counseling: Providing dietary recommendations to ensure adequate caloric and nutrient intake.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to track weight gain and fetal development.
- Addressing Underlying Conditions: Treating any medical or psychological issues that may be contributing to low weight gain.

Conclusion

The ICD-10 code O26.13 is crucial for identifying and managing low weight gain in the third trimester of pregnancy. Proper diagnosis and intervention are essential to mitigate risks associated with this condition, ensuring better outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Regular monitoring and supportive care can help address the underlying causes and promote healthy weight gain during this critical period of pregnancy.

The ICD-10 code O26.13 refers to "Low weight gain in pregnancy, third trimester." This diagnosis is part of a broader classification system used to document and categorize health conditions, particularly in the context of pregnancy. Understanding the criteria for diagnosing low weight gain during this critical period involves several key factors.

Criteria for Diagnosis

1. Gestational Weight Gain Guidelines

The primary criterion for diagnosing low weight gain in the third trimester is based on established gestational weight gain guidelines. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) provides recommendations that vary depending on the woman's pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI):

• Underweight (BMI < 18.5): 28-40 pounds total gain
• Normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9): 25-35 pounds total gain
• Overweight (BMI 25-29.9): 15-25 pounds total gain
• Obesity (BMI ≥ 30): 11-20 pounds total gain

For the third trimester specifically, a woman is expected to gain approximately 1 pound per week. If the weight gain is significantly less than this expected rate, it may be classified as low weight gain[1][2].

2. Assessment of Weight Gain Patterns

Healthcare providers typically assess weight gain at each prenatal visit. A consistent pattern of inadequate weight gain during the third trimester, particularly if it falls below the expected weekly gain, can lead to the diagnosis of low weight gain. This assessment often includes:

• Tracking weight changes: Regular monitoring of the mother's weight throughout pregnancy.
• Comparative analysis: Evaluating the weight gain against the recommended guidelines based on the mother's pre-pregnancy BMI.

3. Clinical Evaluation

In addition to weight tracking, a clinical evaluation may be conducted to rule out other potential issues that could contribute to low weight gain, such as:

• Nutritional deficiencies: Assessing dietary intake to ensure adequate nutrition.
• Medical conditions: Identifying any underlying health issues (e.g., hyperemesis gravidarum, gestational diabetes) that may affect weight gain.
• Fetal growth assessment: Monitoring fetal growth through ultrasounds to ensure the baby is developing appropriately despite the mother's low weight gain.

4. Documentation and Coding

For proper coding under ICD-10, healthcare providers must document the specific circumstances surrounding the low weight gain. This includes:

• Patient history: Documenting any relevant medical history or conditions that may impact weight gain.
• Weight records: Keeping detailed records of the patient's weight at each visit, particularly in the third trimester.
• Clinical findings: Noting any clinical findings that support the diagnosis of low weight gain.

Conclusion

The diagnosis of low weight gain in pregnancy during the third trimester (ICD-10 code O26.13) is primarily based on established weight gain guidelines, consistent monitoring of weight patterns, and thorough clinical evaluations. It is crucial for healthcare providers to document all relevant information to ensure accurate coding and appropriate management of the condition. If low weight gain is identified, further assessments may be necessary to address potential underlying issues and to support the health of both the mother and the fetus[3][4].