Would it be surprising to know that 20% of the world suffers from xerostomia, and of that, pregnant women make up a certain percentage? It’s true.
Pregnancy is supposed to be a time of excitement and joy, but for many, it is also a time of uncomfortable dry mouth symptoms that include a constant sore throat, trouble speaking, and more. Unfortunately, dry mouth is actually very common during pregnancy. It is usually present during the first trimester and happens more frequently at night.
What causes pregnancy-related dry mouth?
Dry mouth occurs during pregnancy for several reasons. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Gestational diabetes
Only occurring during pregnancy, gestational diabetes causes high blood sugar. It is a result of the body not being able to make insulin which is in full demand during pregnancy.
- Thrush
Scientifically speaking, thrush is an overgrowth of the fungus Candida albicans which is present in all bodies. The problem begins when there is an overgrowth. This happens when the immune system is compromised. Thrush is known to cause a dry, “cottony” feeling in the mouth.
- Increased blood production
To accommodate the growing body, pregnant women produce more blood than women who are not pregnant. When blood production increases, water is retained and that is what causes dry mouth. Not to mention, the body expels more fluids when there is an increase in blood production and that can exacerbate symptoms.
Other causes include:
- Sleep disturbance
- Side effects of medication
- Increased metabolic rates
- Hormonal changes
- Dehydration
Symptoms
- Constant sore throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Dryness inside the nose
- Burning feeling in the throat or mouth
- Trouble speaking
- Hoarseness
- Change in sense of taste
- Tooth decay
- Headaches
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Hot flashes
- Indigestion
- Cracked lips
Other associated health issues
In addition to gestational diabetes, experiencing dry mouth may indicate one or more other conditions, including anemia and hypertension (high blood pressure).
Women experiencing dry mouth during pregnancy should always talk to their physician, even if the symptoms aren’t causing them pain.
Tips for finding relief
There are several ways to relieve dry mouth during pregnancy. Below are some of the most common remedies:
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
- Practice good oral health
- Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
- Sleep with a humidifier at night
- Drink more water or suck on ice chips to keep the mouth moist
- Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol
How OraCoat® XyliMelts® discs can help
Along with the remedies above, products such as XyliMelts discs can help provide temporary relief from dry mouth. The discs are designed with adhering-disc technology that stays in place for hours and helps increase moisture in the mouth. There are several benefits to using XyliMelts discs to fight dry mouth:
- Can be used while sleeping
- No effect on speaking or appearance during daytime use
- Increases saliva*
- Freshens breath
- Lasts for hours
- Coats moisturizes and lubricates*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.