Common causes of dry mouth during pregnancy
According to Dr. Apurva Gupta, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynecology at Daffodils by Artemis, Delhi, India, one of the main reasons for dry mouth during pregnancy is hormonal changes . These changes can alter the function of the salivary glands, leading to reduced saliva production and a feeling of dry mouth.
Estrogen plays an active role in maintaining mucosal moisture and when estrogen levels change, it can lead to a decrease in the amount of lubricant in the mouth.
In addition to hormonal changes, there are other factors that can cause dry mouth during pregnancy:
- Dehydration , as pregnant women often need more fluids.
- Increase blood volume.
- Use of prenatal vitamins and other medications.
- Stress and anxiety.
Pregnancy-related conditions that can lead to dry mouth
Dr. Gupta notes that several pregnancy-related conditions can also lead to dry mouth:
- Gestational diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels.
- Severe morning sickness is characterized by severe nausea and vomiting.
- Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure and the risk of organ damage.
These conditions can aggravate dry mouth and need to be carefully managed to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
Complications to watch out for
Although dry mouth may not seem like a cause for concern, if left untreated during pregnancy, it can lead to a number of risks and complications.
“Reduced saliva production increases the risk of oral health problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, due to reduced natural cleansing and antibacterial effects,” adds Dr. Apurva Gupta. “For pregnant women with conditions such as gestational diabetes, dehydration due to dry mouth can worsen overall health, potentially harming the health of both mother and baby.”
How to manage
Here are some tips to manage dry mouth during pregnancy:
- Increase water intake, especially filtered water.
- Suck on sugar-free candy or chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
- Use a humidifier in the home.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
- Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
