A: Aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce cups a day to reap the beneficial effects of drinking water. These benefits include:

• Maintaining healthy kidney function and reducing the incidence of urinary tract infections,
• Preventing dehydration, which is linked to preterm contractions,
• Supplying your body with the liquid it needs to maintain your high pregnancy blood volume,
• Replenishing the amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby,
• Improving the health of your skin and maintaining a more beautiful complexion,
• Reducing constipation and hemorrhoids, and
• Helping to reduce unnecessary weight gain, particularly when water is substituted for high calorie drinks like juices and soft drinks.

Additional water is advised when you're exercising or traveling. High altitudes and hot weather increase your body's need for water. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink up—keep a clean water supply at hand throughout the day.

So you know, there is one sure sign that you're not getting enough fluids: your urine color will be dark yellow or gold. Other signs could include a dry mouth, lightheadedness or feeling lethargic.