Am I the only one who finds water off-putting, especially on a cold day? I met a mum who confessed that she struggled with drinking water throughout her pregnancy. The hack she used, however, was surprisingly simple, she bought disposable straws and used them every time she poured herself a glass. Somehow, sipping through a straw made it easier, less of a chore, and more of a casual habit.
It sounds funny, but hydration during pregnancy isn’t something to take lightly. Your body is working overtime, producing extra blood, nourishing your growing baby, and regulating temperature, all of which require more water than usual. You’re not just hydrating for yourself but also for your little one. Adequate water intake supports the formation of the amniotic fluid, helps deliver nutrients through the placenta, and even reduces the risk of urinary tract infections and constipation.
Still, knowing you should drink water and actually doing it are two very different things. The truth is, many expectant moms struggle with this. Between morning sickness, a constantly full bladder, and taste aversions, it’s easy to fall short. But there are small, manageable ways to stay on top of it.
If plain water feels boring, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or berries to give it a refreshing twist. Herbal teas, soups, and fruits with high water content, like watermelon, oranges, and cucumber, also count toward your hydration goals. You can even try warm water with a splash of honey or a squeeze of lime on cold mornings when chilled water just doesn’t feel right.
Keeping a reusable water bottle nearby is another underrated trick. You’re more likely to sip when it’s within reach, at your desk, bedside, or even in your diaper bag. Some moms find it helpful to set reminders on their phone or mark their bottles with time goals (“8 a.m.” “10 a.m.” “12 p.m.”) to make it feel like a fun daily challenge.
Your body will usually tell you when you need more water, headaches, fatigue, dark yellow urine, and dry lips are all signs of dehydration. Aim for clear or pale-yellow urine as a general indicator that you’re doing well. And remember, as your pregnancy progresses, your fluid needs increase, especially if you’re active or live in a warm climate.
Hydration may not be the most glamorous part of pregnancy, but it’s one of the most essential. Think of every sip as an act of care, for yourself and the tiny human growing inside you. So, grab that straw, pour a glass, and take it one sip at a time. Your body (and your baby) will thank you for it.