Morning sickness: causes, symptoms, and treatment of nausea during pregnancy
- Article reading time: 5 minutes
Morning sickness is a common experience for many pregnant women, affecting more than half of expectant mothers. Despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of day and is characterized by nausea and vomiting, especially during the first trimester of pregnancy. Although it can be uncomfortable, it does not harm your baby and is likely caused by a sudden increase in pregnancy hormones.
Symptoms of morning sickness
Morning sickness symptoms can vary from one woman to another, but generally include the following:
Nausea with or without vomiting
Nausea that occurs in the morning but can reappear throughout the day
Sensitivity to certain smells and foods
Nausea after eating, especially spicy foods
Nausea or vomiting caused by heat and excessive saliva secretion
When to see your doctor
Although morning sickness is usually mild and resolves on its own, there are situations when you should contact your doctor:
If you have flu-like symptoms that might indicate an illness
If you feel dizzy or faint
If you experience severe or repeated vomiting several times a day
If you can’t keep fluids or food down and are losing weight
If you suspect your nausea may be caused by the iron in your prenatal vitamins
If you feel the need to take anti-nausea medication
Risk factors for morning sickness
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing morning sickness, such as:
Having morning sickness during a previous pregnancy
Having a sensitive stomach before pregnancy, including motion sickness, migraines, or sensitivity to certain smells or tastes
Being pregnant with twins or multiples, which leads to higher levels of the pregnancy hormone hCG
Additionally, if you are pregnant with a girl, have a family history of the condition, or have experienced it in a previous pregnancy, you may be at higher risk of developing a severe form of morning sickness called **hyperemesis gravidarum**.
Treatment for morning sickness
For moderate to severe morning sickness, your doctor may recommend the following:
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) supplements
Natural remedies such as ginger
Prescription anti-nausea medications for persistent symptoms
Extra fluids if symptoms are severe enough to cause dehydration
In cases of severe pregnancy vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum), hospitalization may be necessary to receive intravenous fluids, anti-nausea medications, and corticosteroid drugs.
Home remedies for morning sickness
In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies may help reduce morning sickness symptoms:
Eat five or six small meals instead of three large ones
Take multivitamins regularly, but not on an empty stomach
Avoid smells that trigger nausea
Before getting out of bed, eat light and easily digestible foods such as saltine crackers, dry toast, or cereal
Stay hydrated by sipping water, mild tea, or clear carbonated drinks like ginger ale
Get fresh air by going outside or opening a window
Rinse your mouth after vomiting to protect your teeth from stomach acid
Remember, while morning sickness can be unpleasant, it is a common and usually temporary part of pregnancy. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can better manage your symptoms and enjoy a healthy pregnancy. If your symptoms are severe or persistent, consult your doctor for guidance and support.
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