Morning sickness, also known as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), it’s a symptom of pregnancy that involves nausea and vomiting. Nausea or vomiting can occur at any time during the day and even in the night. These symptoms usually occur between 4th and 16th week of pregnancy. However, some women endures morning sickness into their second trimester, unfortunate few experience nausea and vomiting for the entire duration of their pregnancy. The nausea and vomiting can leave you exhausted and miserable. Talk with your doctor about your symptoms and the options for relief.
What causes nausea and vomiting during pregnancy?
The cause of morning sickness during pregnancy remains a mystery, but it’s probably a combination of physical and metabolic changes taking place in your body. The possible causes include:
- High levels of hormones, including estrogen. Estrogen is another possible cause because it also rises rapidly in early pregnancy
- Fluctuations in blood pressure, particularly lowered blood pressure
- Altered metabolism of carbohydrates
- Stress
- An enhanced sense of smell and sensitivity to odors
Morning sickness remedies:
- Don’t take drugs of any kind, unless your doctor has prescribed specific medications.
- Eat plain sweet biscuits before getting out of bed in the morning.
- Eat small meals regularly, and snacks frequently throughout the day so your stomach is never empty as an empty stomach tends to trigger nausea.
- Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after eating.
- Avoid cooking or preparing foods.
- Avoid foods and smells that trigger your nausea.
- Get some fresh air by taking a walk or opening a window.
- Wear loose clothes that don’t constrict your abdomen.
- Consume vitamin B6 supplements can be useful, but don’t overdoses. Follow your doctor’s advice.
- Consider acupressure or acupuncture on the wrist.
- Wear loose clothes that don’t constrict your abdomen.
- Don’t lie down right after eating because this can slow digestion.
- Don’t eat fatty foods because these take longer to digest.
- Relax and take naps whenever you can – nausea can get worse if you’re tired.
- Watching a TV show or spending time with a friend can relieve stress.
Will nausea affect baby?
Moderate nausea and occasional vomiting from morning sickness won’t affect your baby. Even if you don’t gain any weight in the first trimester, it’s generally not a problem as long as you’re able to stay hydrated and can keep some food down. If you have nausea and vomiting that will not stop, contact your doctor.
Always seek medical advice if your morning sickness is severe, or if you feel depressed or anxious. Treatment options can include drugs that won’t harm your developing baby.