Expectant mothers face many challenges during the pregnancy period. Usually, most people focus on monitoring the baby’s health, ignoring common issues related to the mother’s health.
However, symptoms like dehydration during pregnancy are also serious and should alert you of an ongoing problem. Leaving such an issue unattended can lead to various physical and cognitive symptoms.
While it’s essential to have a balanced nutrient intake, pregnant women must also drink enough water. Indeed, the liquid is critical for every mother’s health, but it’s also responsible for forming the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus.
Moreover, water is crucial in blood production, creating new tissues, aiding proper digestion, and building a placenta.
Undoubtedly, water is an essential resource that can prevent dehydration. In this regard, it’s important to know the causes and symptoms of dehydration during pregnancy. Read on to learn why proper hydration is essential for the health of the future mother and her child:
What is dehydration during pregnancy?
Dehydration in pregnancy is a condition that occurs when the body lacks sufficient fluids. Common symptoms in pregnancy include vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive sweat, each potentially affecting the mother and the developing fetus.
Here’s a list of the possible causes of dehydration during pregnancy:
What are the causes of dehydration in pregnancy?
Several factors can contribute to dehydration during pregnancy. One of the leading causes is increased fluid loss due to increased urine production.
Typically, women produce higher amounts of progesterone during pregnancy, which causes a spike in urine production in the kidneys. Moreover, pregnancy may also increase the general thirst due to changes in blood volume and an increase in blood flow to the uterus.
Other causes may include vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive sweating. In some cases, pregnant women may experience fever or morning sickness, which can increase the risk of dehydration. In this regard, it’s essential to be aware of dehydration’s potential causes and symptoms.
What are the common pregnancy dehydration symptoms?
Dehydration during pregnancy can cause a variety of symptoms. Luckily, they are easily identifiable, allowing immediate action without needing to see a doctor. Some of the common signs of dehydration during pregnancy include:
- Thirst
- Dry mouth and throat
- Dry, cool skin
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dark yellow urine
- Constipation
Possible complications caused by dehydration during pregnancy
If left untreated, severe dehydration can lead to serious complications for the mother and the developing fetus. In this regard, knowing the possible risks and how to prevent such conditions is important.
Some of the potential complications include the following:
Preterm labor
Dehydration during pregnancy can cause uterine contractions, increasing the risk of preterm labor. Preterm labor occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy, which can lead to severe complications for both the mother and the baby.
Low amniotic fluid levels
Amniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds and protects the developing fetus. Dehydration can cause a decrease in amniotic fluid levels, which can lead to various complications, including reduced fetal movement, placental abruption, and fetal distress.
Higher risk of infection
Dehydration can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infection. Dehydrated pregnant women may be at an increased risk of contracting a urinary tract infection or other types of infections.
Fetal complications
Dehydration during pregnancy can also have adverse effects on the developing fetus. It can cause decreased fetal growth and development and increase the risk of stillbirth.
How to prevent dehydration during pregnancy?
While there’s no universal formula, some simple steps can help prevent dehydration during pregnancy. In most cases, pregnant women must ensure they have sufficient fluid intake, especially when it comes to water. The minimum is eight glasses of water or about 2 liters per day.
In addition to drinking fluids, there are several other steps that pregnant women can take to prevent dehydration:
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they are harmful to the fetus and can also contribute to dehydration
- Stay inside during hot weather to prevent excessive sweating
- Avoid exercising in hot, humid conditions
- Eat fruits and vegetables to increase the fluid intake
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing to prevent excessive sweating
By following these tips, pregnant women can help prevent dehydration and ensure the health and well-being of both themselves and their developing fetuses.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, dehydration during pregnancy is common, and many future mothers ignore it. But while it may seem unlikely, it can quickly become a serious issue.
For this reason, pregnant women need to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, and avoiding drinks that can contribute to dehydration.
If you are experiencing symptoms of dehydration, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent serious complications. Finally, remember that prevention is vital to a successful pregnancy. In this regard, avoiding dehydration during pregnancy can help ensure the well-being of both you and your developing fetus.