Struggling to satisfy your thirst? Here’s what might be going on and tips to stay hydrated and healthy.
Are you finding it hard to drink enough? Increased thirst can actually be one of the first signs of pregnancy (so if you’re hoping for a positive test, it might be time to check!). This heightened thirst may continue throughout your entire pregnancy. Why is this happening? Your body requires additional fluids to support the development of your baby, making hydration crucial. If you feel perpetually parched, here’s what your body might be indicating.
Is Feeling Thirsty During Pregnancy Normal?
“It’s completely normal to experience increased thirst during pregnancy, even in the first trimester,” explains Donald Grant, MD, ChB, DRCOG, MRCGP, a general physician in Bristol, UK, and the clinical lead at The Independent Pharmacy. “As other early pregnancy symptoms emerge, thirst often accompanies them.” While some early symptoms may subside over time, thirst during pregnancy is likely to persist and may even intensify as the weeks go by.
What’s concerning? An unquenchable thirst that lasts all day and night, which doesn’t improve even after drinking plenty of water. Such extreme thirst could indicate other medical issues. Read on to find out more.
Reasons for Increased Thirst During Pregnancy
You may have heard the saying “eating for two,” but why does it feel like you’re also drinking for two? The simplest explanation is that you really are! According to Grant, your body needs more fluids to facilitate blood circulation for your baby, maintain a healthy level of amniotic fluid, and manage your increased blood volume. Another factor contributing to your thirst could be that you’re feeling warmer and sweating more—common side effects of pregnancy that can raise your fluid needs.
Causes of Excessive Thirst During Pregnancy
If your thirst feels excessive, it may be due to more serious conditions, such as:
- Gestational Diabetes: In some cases, extreme thirst could signal gestational diabetes, notes Kecia Gaither, MD, an OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist at NYC Health+Hospitals/Lincoln. However, most women with gestational diabetes show no symptoms, which is why screening is standard for all pregnant women.
- HELLP Syndrome: This rare condition affects liver enzymes during pregnancy and requires close monitoring until delivery. Symptoms, in addition to excessive thirst, may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and upper right abdominal pain.
If you experience any of these symptoms, reach out to your doctor for evaluation and guidance.
How to Manage Thirst During Pregnancy
If you’re feeling thirsty, the best advice is to drink plenty of fluids! Grant suggests drinking until your thirst is satisfied and avoiding the urge to limit water intake just to reduce trips to the bathroom. “Consider sucking on ice throughout the day to help increase your hydration naturally. Opt for less salty foods and choose juicy fruits and vegetables that are high in water content.”
Staying hydrated is essential during pregnancy. Pregnant women are generally advised to consume 8 to 10 glasses of water daily, according to Gaither. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which may result in complications such as low amniotic fluid, reduced breast milk production, and even premature labor, warns Grant. “These issues could lead to severe birth defects, including brain damage or spina bifida,” he adds.
Signs of dehydration to watch for include:
- Dark, concentrated urine
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Uterine contractions
- Fainting
To help you stay on track, keep a water bottle handy—places like your purse, car, and work desk are great spots to keep it. If necessary, set hourly reminders to ensure you’re drinking enough. If you’re pregnant during hot summer months, it’s even more critical to have water accessible. If you find it challenging to consume the recommended amount of water, consider getting a water bottle that tracks your intake.
