Dehydration in pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting can make drinking difficult, particularly when they continue through the day. Diarrhoea, fever, sweating in hot conditions, and reduced intake can also lower body fluid. Thirst, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, tiredness, dark urine, and passing urine less often can occur. Dehydration may also make constipation worse.

Pregnancy changes how symptoms should be assessed. The cause may need attention as well as the fluid loss, so tell your maternity team if vomiting or diarrhoea is persistent or you cannot keep drinks down.

Take small, frequent sips and rest somewhere cool. Continue usual pregnancy-safe foods as tolerated. If vomiting or diarrhoea is involved, ask a clinician or pharmacist whether an oral rehydration solution is suitable. Do not start supplements or medicines for nausea without checking that they are appropriate in pregnancy. Note how often you pass urine and whether fluids stay down.

Contact your maternity team promptly for ongoing vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, fainting, confusion, severe dizziness, very little urine, blood in vomit or stool, or worsening weakness. Emergency help is needed for collapse, severe breathing difficulty, or reduced responsiveness.

Ask which fluids and rehydration products are suitable, whether your medicines need review, and what urine or vomiting changes require assessment. Tell the clinician how far along the pregnancy is and whether you have fever, pain, or reduced fetal movement.