How to Identify Pregnancy Dehydration Pre-Term Labor

If you are pregnant, you will get lots of advice from people on different symptoms you could have that may be indicators of pre-term labor. The truth is, it's hard to know whether you're in labor or not because some of the symptoms that indicate pre-term labor are just part of the process of your body getting ready to deliver. Getting dehydrated when pregnant is pretty much the same as getting dehydrated any other time. The only added indicator is that your body will give you signs that you will be delivering soon if you don't hydrate. Read this article to discover the signs of dehydration that may lead to pre-term labor if not prevented. As always, be sure to call your OBGYN if you have any fears at all that you might be experiencing the real thing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A clock to time your contractions, and a water bottle

Know the signs

1. Take proper precautions because any symptoms of labor before 37 weeks could mean pre-term labor. So, contact your doctor or midwife right away if it's too soon and you're having any of these symptoms.
2. Dry, flaky skin, scalp and lips are the first signs that you are not getting enough water, so drink, drink, drink. Also, if you've noticed any kind of increase in vaginal discharge or even change in the type of discharge, this may mean pre-term rupture of membranes (PROM), so call your doctor right away.
3. Strong and rhythmic abdominal cramping is another sign of dehydration and possible pre-term labor. If your abdominal cramps get stronger and closer together, this is definitely a sign that you need to go to the emergency room. As a general rule, more than four contractions in an hour is a sign that labor may be about to begin. If dehydration is the cause, drinking lots and lots of water (about 32 oz an hour) should stop the cramping. However, filling up your bladder too fast can cause additional cramping, so lie down, time your contractions, drink water, and watch for signs.
4. Low back pain and an increase in pelvic pressure may mean that your baby has dropped, so if you feel either of these things, call your doctor or midwife right away. Lying down may help, but it's a good idea to be proactive rather than have regrets later.

Tips & Warnings

• Try drinking sports drinks and/or water with lemon as an alternative to plain old water if you're getting bored.
• Call your doctor or midwife if you even suspect you are in pre-term labor and they can guide you step-by-step as to the precautions you should take and signs you should watch for.