Dehydration can be of major concern at any time, but it can be scary during pregnancy. Hydration is important to keep both the mother and child healthy. Water is the basis of life. Dehydration during pregnancy can be potentially harmful for foetal development.

How to identify dehydration

The low volume of water in the body is dehydration. It is important that you are able to recognize the symptoms of dehydration while pregnant. The body gives you clear symptoms that you need fluids.

You may overheat when you are dehydrated. Pregnancy may cause your internal thermostat to go haywire when you do not ingest enough fluids. Your body may not be able to regulate body temperature if you do not have enough water. The urine colour may turn dark yellow if there is low hydration. You may also have low need to urinate. You may have a dry or sticky mouth due to dehydration. Drowsiness, dizziness and headaches are clearly dehydration in pregnancy symptoms. Dehydration during pregnancy may lead to sunken eyes. More severe symptoms may include low blood pressure and arrhythmic heart beat. Your skin can shrivel and lack elasticity. Dehydrated skin does not bounce back when pinched.

You need help immediately if you have these symptoms. Prevent Dehydration While Pregnant if you want your baby to be healthy and risk free.

How to avoid being dehydrated during pregnancy

Your baby might face extreme distress as side effects of maternal dehydration on the baby. The heart beat may be erratic and the amniotic fluid may become low. How do you treat dehydration during pregnancy is the moot question. It is easier to prevent the condition than to cure it. It may help you avoid the side effects that may cause foetal distress.

Drink plenty of fluids during pregnancy. It could be water, juices, soups and such. You need at least 11-12 glasses of water daily. It is best to avoid caffeine in tea, coffee, and aerated drinks. Sip water or suck on ice chips if you suffer from nausea and vomiting. If you feel that you are not being able to keep the fluids in, consult your doctor to give you medication to reduce morning sickness. If you are into exercise and overheat. It is important that you drink enough water and juices. You sweat more when you go through physical exertion and you might end up with cramps and extreme fatigue. It is best that you keep tender coconut water, juice or infused water to keep your electrolytes in sync and hydration level up.

Dehydration is a very common phenomenon, but it can be more so during pregnancy. You can avoid the condition in very easy steps. Just drink adequate amounts of water. Carry a bottle of water when you step out of the house. Keep a track of what and how much you are drinking .Drink electrolyte rich drinks like tender coconut water, buttermilk and lassi. It is also a good idea to eat fruits and vegetables that is rich in water content. The water rich foods also keep you hydrated.

Keep drinking and keep yourself and your baby healthy and safe.