The Effects of Dehydration on a Fetus at 11 Weeks Pregnant

At 11 weeks pregnant, many women are still experiencing the sickness and nausea associated with the first trimester of pregnancy. During this time, it is easy to become dehydrated. This can cause a low supply of nutrients to the fetus, deformed limbs and, in rare cases, miscarriage.

  1. A Fetus at 11 Weeks

    • In the eleventh week of pregnancy, the fetus is more than 1.5 inches long and about the size of a fig. The fetus is already moving and kicking, and it is nearing the end of the first trimester.

    Effects

    • Without adequate water supply, the fetus may not receive all necessary nutrients. Dehydration also limits the amount of amniotic fluid, which can cause the fetus to come into direct contact with the uterus wall. This leads to deformed limbs. Miscarriages are also possible but rare.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of dehydration include fatigue, dark urine, dizziness, weakness, thirst, and dry mouth or skin.

    Treatment

    • To treat dehydration, a pregnant woman may be hooked up to an IV to restore fluids. If the dehydration is a result of extreme nausea and vomiting, an antinausea medication may be prescribed.

    Prevention

    • To prevent dehydration in pregnancy, drink water regularly. During the first trimester when nausea is common, it is best to restore fluids after vomiting if possible.

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