Is liquid I.V. safe during pregnancy?

What does the evidence say about liquid I.V. during pregnancy?

1. Throwing up often early in pregnancy can leave you dehydrated fast, so getting fluids back in is one of the most useful things you can do for morning sickness. 1
2. When vomiting is severe and constant, that's hyperemesis gravidarum, and it sometimes means a hospital visit for IV fluids, not just a stronger drink mix at home. 2
3. Electrolyte mixes like Liquid I.V. lean heavily on sodium, and the general guidance for adults is to keep total sodium around 2,300 mg a day, with less being even better for blood pressure. 3
4. Getting a lot of sodium without enough potassium is linked to higher blood pressure, so it's worth glancing at both numbers on the label instead of just the sodium line. 4
5. Pregnancy already raises the odds of blood pressure problems like preeclampsia, so a daily high-sodium drink mix is worth mentioning to your provider if you have high blood pressure or a history of it. 5

Is liquid I.V. safe in each trimester?

• First trimester. Morning sickness peaks now, and losing fluids from vomiting is the main reason people reach for Liquid I.V. in the first trimester. It can help you get some fluids in between meals, but one packet a day is a reasonable cap while you also drink plain water. If you can't keep any fluids down at all, call your provider instead of relying on an electrolyte drink alone.
• Second trimester. Nausea usually eases up by the second trimester, so most women don't need Liquid I.V. as often. If you're still using it daily, mention it at your next prenatal visit, especially if your blood pressure has ever run high.
• Third trimester. Blood pressure checks happen more often in the third trimester because preeclampsia risk goes up. Sodium from electrolyte drinks stacks on top of what you're already getting from food, so keep track of how many packets you use and tell your care team about any swelling, headaches, or blood pressure changes.