Dry Mouth During Pregnancy: What You Need To Know

While morning sickness, fatigue, and food cravings are often a common part of pregnancy, many pregnant women may also experience dry mouth.

If you wake up with a parched mouth, constantly feel the need to sip water, or notice a sticky feeling in your mouth, know that nearly 20 percent of pregnant women experience dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, at some point during their pregnancy. 

So, why does this happen, and how can you manage it? Read this article to know everything you need to know about dry mouth during pregnancy.

Several factors contribute to dry mouth while you’re expecting. Here are some potential factors associated with dry mouth during pregnancy.

Pregnancy hormones, especially progesterone and estrogen, alter saliva production, thereby leading to a dry, sticky mouth.

Your body needs more water to support increased blood volume, and during pregnancy, this need rises by almost 50 percent , sometimes leading to dehydration and dry mouth.

Pregnant women urinate more due to increased kidney function, which can cause fluid loss and dehydration, resulting in a dry mouth.

Did you know that around 2-10 percent of pregnancies are affected by gestational diabetes?

Increased blood sugar levels can cause excessive thirst, dry mouth, and frequent urination. 

Nasal congestion, common in pregnancy, may also force you to breathe through your mouth, which can dry out saliva.

Dry mouth can come with several uncomfortable symptoms, including.

If left untreated, dry mouth can lead to an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.

Dry mouth can effectively be managed with simple lifestyle changes. Here’s what you can do to keep your mouth moist and comfortable:

Aim to drink at least 8-12 cups or 2-3 liters of water daily. Simply keep a water bottle handy and sip throughout the day.

Cut down on caffeinated drinks, including coffee, soda, and energy drinks, as they contribute to dehydration. You can even try herbal teas or infused water.

Suck on sugar-free lozenges or ice chips to stimulate saliva production. Besides, chewing sugar-free gum can also help.

Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly. Also, using an alcohol-free mouthwash prevents further drying.

If dry air worsens your symptoms, you can consider using a humidifier in your bedroom to keep moisture levels balanced, especially at night.

Include foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and yogurt, which have high water content to help keep you hydrated.

While mild dry mouth is common, persistent dryness can be a sign of an underlying condition. It is best to consult your doctor if you experience the following signs:

Dry mouth during pregnancy may be uncomfortable, but it’s usually temporary and can be managed easily with some lifestyle and dietary changes. By staying hydrated and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can keep your mouth feeling fresh and comfortable.