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You've heard the 8 glasses of water a day rule since you were a kid, but that rule is even more important during pregnancy and lactation. A woman's blood volume increases during pregnancy, which means that her fluid intake needs increase as well.

Women who are pregnant need 10 cups of water a day, and women who are breastfeeding need 13 cups or more. Drinking enough of the clear stuff during pregnancy can help prevent problems such as dehydration and constipation and help keep your energy levels where you need them to be--up! Here are some ways to make sure you're getting enough H2O.

Drink from a measuring cup. Try drinking from a 4-cup measure. You'll only have to fill it a few times, and it will be easy to track your consumption.
Add lemon. A squeeze of some lemon and a few ice cubes might make your water more appealing.
Add tea. Brew a few cups of your favorite caffeine-free herbal tea, and you're well on your way to hydration.
Keep a container with you at all times. In the car, in your purse, in the diaper bag, on your bedside table. The more accessible, the better. Here's to your health!