Are you drinking enough water during pregnancy to lower complications and keep baby healthy? Find out what you might be risking here on Newsymom!
This informational campaign comes to you in partnership with the Stark County Community Action Agency.
Are you drinking enough water during your pregnancy? Today, we’ll talk about the importance of water intake during pregnancy and what you’re risking if you don’t hydrate enough!
Dr. Marissa Levine, DO gives us some insight on why drinking water is important for reducing risks during your pregnancy.
Q & A With Dr. Marissa Levine, DO
Cleveland Clinic – Akron General
Q: How much water should I be drinking while pregnant?
A: There’s no set amount of water you should be drinking, as it varies from case to case and how far along in your pregnancy you are. At the very least, drink the recommended eight glasses a day. (It’s easy to remember this number.)Â However, you need to be drinking even more as you get further along in your pregnancy to reduce complications!
Q: Why do we need more water during pregnancy?
A: During pregnancy, you have higher blood volume, so hydrating it is absolutely important!
Q: What kinds of risks could you experience during your pregnancy when you aren’t hydrating enough?
A: When you’re dehydrated, it could cause tons of problems including premature contractions for mom and pre-term birth for baby.
How can you stay on top of drinking water to keep you and baby healthy? Follow these mom-approved tips to help you stay hydrated!
Tips for Monitoring Your Water Intake:
- Get a water bottle with markings for certain timeframes to drink water consistently throughout the day.
- Set alarms on your phone for every couple hours to make sure you’re regularly drinking water.
- Keep track of how many times you’re going to the bathroom. And watch out for your pee color. The darker it is, the more water you need!
- Drink water before, during, and after your meals.
- Set water intake goals: “I want to drink three of my water bottles today!” Moreover, give yourself rewards when you meet those goals.
- Get an accountability buddy–someone that you can check in with and celebrate when you meet your water goals!
Continue to keep yourself and baby healthy throughout pregnancy. If you or someone you know are ever in need of additional pregnancy support, education, or community services, the SCCAA Community Actions Pathway HUB is an available resource for pregnant and new mothers.
Melissa Klatt
Reporting
