Is there such a thing as drinking too much water when you're pregnant?

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Is there such a thing as drinking too much water when you're pregnant?

In general water is thought to be very healthy and important during pregnancy. However, there are a few potential problems with drinking gallons of water each day.

If you are drinking a large amount of water because of severe thirst (as opposed to habit), be sure to tell your doctor. This increase in thirst could be a warning that blood glucose levels are on the rise.
As the uterus expands it begins to put pressure on the stomach, which many times limits the amount of food/liquid that can be consumed comfortably. Be certain that the large amounts of water are not limiting your ability to eat a well-balanced diet that provides the nutrients necessary for appropriate weight gain throughout pregnancy.
There is a condition of pregnancy called pica, which causes women to crave non-nutritious foods like ice, laundry starch, or even clay dirt. If you are craving water it is possible you may have this condition. There is some thought that pica can be a sign of iron-poor blood or anemia, which can be assessed at a prenatal visit. Be sure to speak with your doctor about the craving of water.

The bottom line is that drinking water during pregnancy is important. However, if your water intake is preventing you from eating a diet that provides all the recommended nutrients, or if you are craving water, it is a good idea to speak with your physician or midwife so they can evaluate the situation and make certain it is not caused by something more significant.

Tanya Jolliffe, Babyfit Nutritionist

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