How is BMI calculated?

BMI is your weight in kilograms divided by the square of your height in metres (kg/m²). This calculator does the maths for you — just enter your height in cm and weight in kg.

Why does the calculator show two categories?

The WHO standard ranges were based largely on European populations. Research shows people of Asian and Indian descent can face health risks at a lower BMI, so India and the WHO Asia-Pacific guidance use lower cut-offs (overweight from 23, obesity from 25). We show both so you have the fuller picture.

Is BMI accurate for women?

BMI is a useful screening tool but a blunt one. It doesn't measure body fat, muscle, or where you carry weight, and it can mislabel very muscular or older people. It's a starting point for a conversation with your doctor, not a verdict.

Can I use this BMI calculator during pregnancy?

No. BMI is not used to assess weight during pregnancy. Your doctor or midwife tracks healthy pregnancy weight gain instead — see our pregnancy weight gain calculator for that.

My BMI is outside the healthy range — what should I do?

First, breathe — one number doesn't define your health or your worth. Focus on sustainable habits (balanced food, movement, sleep, stress care). If you're concerned, or your weight changed without explanation, talk to a doctor who can look at the whole picture.

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BMI Calculator for Women ⚖️

Enter your height and weight to see your BMI — shown with both the WHO standard and the India/Asian cut-offs, explained kindly. Private, and no sign-up.

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What BMI is — and isn't

BMI (Body Mass Index) is a simple ratio of weight to height. It's a quick way to screen whether your weight sits in a range associated with higher or lower health risk for most people — but it's a blunt tool. It can't tell muscle from fat, doesn't consider where you carry weight, and isn't meaningful during pregnancy, for athletes, for under-18s, or for older adults.

Why India uses lower cut-offs

People of Asian and Indian descent can carry more central body fat and face higher risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes at a lower BMI. That's why India and the WHO Asia-Pacific guidance flag “overweight” from a BMI of 23 and “obesity” from 25, rather than the WHO standard 25 and 30. We show both so nothing is hidden from you.

A kinder way to read it

Your BMI is one data point, not a judgement. If you'd like to act on it, our guides to a healthy weight and nutrition for women focus on sustainable, non-shaming habits — and a doctor can help you read your number in the context of your whole health.

BMI calculator FAQs

How is BMI calculated?: BMI is your weight in kilograms divided by the square of your height in metres (kg/m²). This calculator does the maths for you — just enter your height in cm and weight in kg.
Why does the calculator show two categories?: The WHO standard ranges were based largely on European populations. Research shows people of Asian and Indian descent can face health risks at a lower BMI, so India and the WHO Asia-Pacific guidance use lower cut-offs (overweight from 23, obesity from 25). We show both so you have the fuller picture.
Is BMI accurate for women?: BMI is a useful screening tool but a blunt one. It doesn't measure body fat, muscle, or where you carry weight, and it can mislabel very muscular or older people. It's a starting point for a conversation with your doctor, not a verdict.
Can I use this BMI calculator during pregnancy?: No. BMI is not used to assess weight during pregnancy. Your doctor or midwife tracks healthy pregnancy weight gain instead — see our pregnancy weight gain calculator for that.
My BMI is outside the healthy range — what should I do?: First, breathe — one number doesn't define your health or your worth. Focus on sustainable habits (balanced food, movement, sleep, stress care). If you're concerned, or your weight changed without explanation, talk to a doctor who can look at the whole picture.

This tool is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. BMI is a screening estimate, not a diagnosis. Please talk to a qualified doctor about what a healthy weight means for you.