When you’re pregnant, staying fit, healthy, and properly hydrated is a top priority. But staying properly hydrated is particularly important. Keeping your water levels up during pregnancy supports the increased blood volume, the amniotic fluid production, and the overall health of both mum and baby. So how much water should a pregnant woman drink? Let’s look at more of the benefits staying hydrated can bring during those nine months. 

How much should a pregnant woman drink?

So, how much water should we drink each day? As a rule, the NHS Eatwell guide recommends we all drink around 6-8 glasses of fluids each day which is roughly 1.5-2 litres. This is also true when you’re pregnant, as confirmed by leading pregnancy charity Tommy’s. But fluids can also mean water and other low-fat and sugar-free drinks, including herbal and fruit teas, milk, or soft drinks. 

However, you’re allowed to drink more fluids if you’re pregnant. The extra fluid or water you drink during your pregnancy will help make sure you and your baby stay properly hydrated. But, as in all our lives, your needs can differ depending on what you’re doing, how warm it is, and your overall health.

Why is drinking water important when you’re pregnant?

Drinking water has multiple health benefits for everyone, whether pregnant or not. But, water has extra benefits for your body – and your baby – when pregnant.

Boost amniotic fluid

The water you drink helps to maintain the right amount of amniotic fluid which is essential for your baby’s health, growth, and development. The fluid protects the baby while also delivering vital nutrients.

Additional blood volume

Throughout pregnancy, the volume of blood in your body gradually increases by up to 50%, so by the time you give birth, you have an extra 1.5 litres of blood coursing through your veins. Staying hydrated helps with proper circulation and delivery of nutrients to the baby (see above).

Reduce swelling

Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles during pregnancy is normal and common but can be uncomfortable. Drinking more water may actually help reduce any swelling you experience. You could also try eating more bananas to give you an extra potassium boost. 

Stay healthy and hydrated with Thirsty Work

All fluids, but especially water, play a big role in staying healthy during pregnancy, benefitting both you and your baby. Aiming for those 6-8 glasses (or more) each day will give your body the boost it needs to support you until the birth.

But drinking tap water might not be to your taste, so drinking so much of it might put you off. And shop-bought bottled water can be expensive. So why not try a bottled water cooler or a mains-fed water cooler to give you pure, great-tasting, fully-filtered water every time with even more health benefits?

To get more information on our range of water coolers, deliveries, and service packages, speak to our customer service team today. Get your free quote and begin your no-obligation 10-day free trial to try it for yourself. Call today on 01392 877 172 or email hello@thirstywork.com.