Waking up with nausea or vomiting when you are newly pregnant is not a unique case. The number of pregnant women afflicted by morning sickness is up to 70-80%, and although it is generally accepted that it is an inevitable part of the pregnancy process, this does not make it any less difficult to endure.
So, what about the morning sickness, why it occurs, what the causes are and what can be done about it?
What Is Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness is a typical symptom of pregnancy, which involves nausea or vomiting or both, and is mostly experienced during the first trimester. It may occur at any time of day, regardless of the name.
It usually begins at week 6, and lightens at week 14-16. It can, however, be more severe or prolonged in a few women.
What Causes Morning Sickness?
The doctors are not sure as to why it occurs, but the following are the chief factors that are thought to cause it:
1. Hormonal Changes
It is believed to be caused mainly by the sudden increase in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen. The highest levels of hCG are in the first trimester when nausea is at its strongest.
2. Heightened Sense of Smell
Pregnant women develop a hypersensitivity to smell, and nausea is easily caused. The odours of cooking, perfume or even coffee may feel overwhelming at any moment.
3. Slowed Digestion
Pregnancy hormones also relax your digestive system. This reduced rate of digestion can cause a bloated stomach, acid reflux and nausea.
4. Stress and Fatigue
The early signs of nausea may be aggravated by physical and emotional fatigue. It is your body telling you to slow down and take a break.
5. Low Blood Sugar
The lack of food, especially in the morning, can cause such a condition as nausea when one stays too long without eating. Small and frequent meals should also be taken to keep blood sugar at a steady level.
Is Morning Sickness Harmful?
Morning sickness is not harmful in the majority of situations and is rather unpleasant. Actually, research indicates that it could be an indicator of having a healthy pregnancy. Nevertheless, when vomiting is excessive, causing dehydration or weight loss, it might be a disease known as hyperemesis gravidarum, and medical care is necessary.
Tips to Ease Morning Sickness
- Have frequent small meals
- Before leaving the bed, take dry foods such as crackers as snacks
- Avoid odours and spicy or greasy food items
- Drink ginger tea or lemon water
- Drink fluids during the day
- Sleep well
In certain situations, your physician can advise you to use anti-nausea medicines that are safe in pregnancy.
When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor:
- You cannot retain fluids in your body
- You are getting skinny
- You are lightheaded or faintish
- Nausea does not stop in the second trimester
We offer caring services and secure remedies at Mannat Fertility to assist you in dealing with morning sickness easily and confidently.
Final Thoughts
Morning sickness might be an experience during the pregnancy process, but you are not alone in your suffering. With proper guidance and mild care, it will be dealt with efficiently.
Let Mannat Fertility take care of you during all the phases of pregnancy- with understanding, experience and professional care.