5 Benefits Of Drinking Water During Pregnancy

There is nothing asdrinking too much water during pregnancy. In fact, drinking plenty of water is recommended when you are pregnant. Some women limit their water intake because they believe that drinking too much water may lead to water retention, but this is not true. In fact, it prevents water retention. So, don’t hold back on drinking water when you feel you’ve had more water than usual.

Some pregnant women fear that too much water intake can lead to a drastic increase in the quantity of amniotic fluid – the fluidsurrounding the unborn baby essential for theirgrowth.In medical terms, this condition is known aspolyhydramnios. Drinking plenty of water does not cause too much amniotic fluid to surround the baby. It is usually caused due to a blockage in the baby’s gut, a problem in the placenta, or due to a genetic issue. Sometimes, too much amniotic fluid can also form if the mother is diabetic.

# It Helps In Nutrient Absorption

Water is essential for your body and the baby’s because it helps you provide the essential nutrients to the cells in your body. In addition, water can transport the nutrients required for the baby’s healthy growth. Water, when consumed in plenty, can help in carrying the nutrients from the food you eat to the baby. Your blood volume increases during pregnancy and drinking enough water can help you keep up with the change your body goes through. Insufficient water intake can reduce the nutrients received by the baby.

# It Prevents Urinary Tract Infections

Water is not only important for carrying essentials nutrients to your body and your baby’s, it is also important to flush the toxins out of the body. Pregnant women pee a lot and therefore, it is important for them to get enough water for the normal functioning of the kidneys and the urinary system. This, in turn, does not stress the baby’s kidneys. Drinking enough water also prevents urinary tract infections which are common during pregnancy. It may also relieve or prevent constipation.

# It Fights Dizziness And Fatigue

It is normal for your body to feel tired soon. However, this feeling is heightened if you don’t drink enough water. So, drinking plenty of water when you are pregnant can fight fatigue and dizziness – two conditions that may arise due to dehydration. Some women also experience a condition called maternal overheating – a common sign of dehydration. You need enough water to regulate your body heat. Therefore, drink plenty of water to keep yourself and your baby at normal body temperature.

# It Prevents Early Uterine Contractions

Some studies report a link between preterm labor and dehydration.1 Not drinking enough water can cause unexpected contractions in the uterus and can instigate feelings of fear inthe mother and the family.

# It Improves The QuantityOf Amniotic Fluid

Amniotic fluid is essential for the development of the fetus. It protects the baby and also provides enough room for the movement of the baby. However, dehydration can cause this fluid to reduce which can be harmful tothe baby’s growth. Studies have reported that hydration therapy improves the quantity of amniotic fluid.2 Therefore, drinking plenty of water can improve the quantity of amniotic fluid in the body that is vital for the baby’s growth.