Q&A: Can you harm your baby if you are dehydrated?

by Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo

During the first trimester can you harm your baby or cause problems with your pregnancy if you don't have enough fluid intake?

Dehydration can affect blood flow to the uterus, which is why we don't give diuretics ("fluid pills") for swelling in pregnancy anymore. But feeling dehydrated and being dehydrated may be 2 different things. BUT YOU CAN'T GO WRONG DRINKING LOTS OF FLUIDS throughout the day.

Dehydration can contribute to preterm labor, because hydration is the first thing we try when someone presents with premature contractions.

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