4 Ways to Prevent Dehydration from Pregnancy Morning Sickness

Pregnancy morning sickness sucks. But not only is it a PITA, it can also be serious trouble for you and your baby if it makes you dehydrated. So the best thing you can do when you're suffering from pregnancy morning sickness is to drink (non-alcoholic drinks, of course!). We know, that's soooo much easier said than done when even the thought of a glass of water makes you want to puke. But it's important to stay hydrated when you're suffering from pregnancy morning sickness. Here's how!

• Make your drinks taste yummy! You'll be more likely to stay hydrated if what you're drinking actually appeals to you and doesn't make you gag. So, make yourself some yummy, healthy drinks instead of boring old water all the time. A good ol' Mommy Margarita (minus the tequila, of course!) will hit the spot. Blend water, ice and a squirt of lemon until frothy and pour into a margarita glass. Jimmy Buffett music optional.
• Suck on ice chips! Ice delivers the water to your body much more slowly than drinking does, so if you can't keep down any liquids, sucking on ice chips may help keep you hydrated without activating your pregnancy morning sickness. Plus, it's all they're going to give you in the hospital when you go in for D-day, so might as well get used to 'em now!
• Have some chicken soup! Whether it's your mom's famous homemade recipe or straight from the can, chicken broth is very hydrating. The sodium in it helps your body retain the broth and the carbs in it help your bod absorb the fluids.
• Eat watermelon! A recent study showed that watermelon is actually more hydrating than straight-up water or even sports drinks. It has something to do with the genius combo of rehydration salts like calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium. Oh, and not to mention it's made out of 92% water!

And just so you have all the info, signs you might be dehydrated are:

• Your lips are dry and cracked and no amount of lip gloss will soothe them.
• You are confused and disorientated. You know, like more than normal pregnant brain stuff.
• You're not peeing like a racehorse anymore. And when you do pee, it looks like the color of OJ.
• When you cry at Hallmark commercials, there are no tears.
• You're not sweating when you heave your preggy body up the stairs.
• You feel lightheaded when you're standing.
• You're exhausted. Not just pregnant exhausted, but can't get out of bed, can't lift your head off the pillow exhausted.

If you're suffering from pregnancy morning sickness and experiencing any of the signs listed above, call your OB stat! You may need an IV for severe dehydration.