Why does breastfeeding cause such extreme dryness of the mouth?
Nov 15, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, excessive thirst during breastfeeding may be caused by increased water consumption due to milk production, dry environmental conditions, persistent gestational diabetes, Sjögren's syndrome, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. If the dry mouth persists without improvement, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, drink water in small amounts frequently, and avoid consuming large quantities of water at once.
Under normal circumstances, excessive thirst during breastfeeding may be caused by increased water consumption due to milk production, dry environments, persistent gestational diabetes, Sjögren's syndrome, hyperthyroidism, or other reasons. If the dry mouth persists without improvement, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Increased water loss from milk production
Breast milk consists of over 80% water, and each breastfeeding session consumes a significant amount of the body’s fluids. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dry mouth. It is advisable to drink warm water after each feeding and between meals. Daily fluid intake should be maintained at 2000–2500 ml, and light soups may also be consumed in moderation.
2. Dry or dehydrated environment
Dry indoor air, high temperatures, or habitual mouth breathing can accelerate moisture loss from the oral cavity and respiratory tract, resulting in dry mouth. Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity between 40% and 60%, avoid prolonged stays in air-conditioned rooms, and slightly elevate the head during sleep to reduce mouth breathing.
3. Persistent gestational diabetes
If gestational diabetes developed during pregnancy and blood glucose levels remain elevated postpartum, hyperglycemia can cause osmotic diuresis, leading to fluid loss and dry mouth, often accompanied by frequent urination and increased hunger. Under medical guidance, medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, glibenclamide tablets, or gliclazide modified-release tablets may be prescribed. A low-sugar diet should be maintained, and blood glucose levels monitored regularly.
4. Sjögren's syndrome
This autoimmune disorder involves immune attack on salivary glands, reducing saliva production and causing dryness of the oral mucosa and dry mouth, often accompanied by dry eyes and joint pain. Under medical supervision, medications such as methotrexate tablets, hydroxychloroquine sulfate tablets, or prednisone acetate tablets may be used. Artificial saliva products can help maintain oral moisture, and spicy or irritating foods should be avoided.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates metabolism, increasing water consumption, while also reducing saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Symptoms may include palpitations and excessive sweating. Under medical guidance, medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, or propranolol tablets may be prescribed. Adequate rest is important, and emotional excitement should be avoided.
In daily life, drink water frequently in small amounts rather than consuming large volumes at once; maintain a light, low-salt diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits; keep indoor humidity at an appropriate level; practice good oral hygiene; and undergo regular health check-ups to detect and manage underlying conditions promptly.
