Experiencing morning sickness is a common occurrence for many women in the initial stages of pregnancy. It presents with symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, and despite its name, can strike at any time of the day. The discomfort might linger beyond the morning hours, making it challenging for many expectant mothers. When navigating an unplanned pregnancy, dealing with morning sickness can be particularly daunting. Here, we address some of the frequently asked questions about managing morning sickness to help ease your discomfort.
When can I expect morning sickness symptoms to start?
Morning sickness typically starts between 6-9 weeks into pregnancy, but it can appear at any time during pregnancy. Remember, not every woman goes through these symptoms, so if you don’t, you’re not alone, and it’s completely normal!
How long does morning sickness last?
Morning sickness symptoms typically last only during the first trimester of pregnancy (first 12 weeks). If symptoms persist beyond that, they are usually milder. Yet, some women may experience morning sickness for an extended period, with a few even encountering a recurrence of symptoms in the final trimester.
What does morning sickness feel like?
Morning sickness can manifest differently for each woman, but common experiences include:
- A queasy feeling in the stomach
- Nausea and potential vomiting
- Loss of appetite or increased sensitivity to smells, making certain foods or scents intolerable
Can morning sickness be serious?
Many women feel symptoms of morning sickness for long periods of time throughout the day, which is completely normal. But in some cases, morning sickness can escalate to a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, or persistent nausea and vomiting. This can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider:
- Persistent vomiting: If you’re unable to keep food or liquids down for more than 24 hours, this can lead to dehydration.
- Rapid weight loss: Losing more than 5% of your pre-pregnancy body weight due to vomiting is a red flag.
- Signs of dehydration: Symptoms like dark urine, infrequent urination, dizziness, or a dry mouth may indicate dehydration.
Are there any nutrition tips to help ease morning sickness?
During pregnancy, many women develop a sensitivity to strong smells and flavors, which can make morning sickness worse. Because of this, opting for mild-tasting foods can be a wise choice. Focus on consuming plain, carbohydrate- and protein-rich options while keeping the fat content low. Including easily digestible foods such as cooked fruits, vegetables, oatmeal, crackers, or broth in your diet can prevent stomach discomfort and potentially ease symptoms.
Are there ways to avoid morning sickness?
Morning sickness can sometimes feel worse on an empty or full stomach. To prevent this, it helps to opt for frequent small meals or snacks throughout the day rather than larger meals. Keeping snacks in your purse or nightstand so you can eat on the go or before/after sleep can be helpful. Having a small bite immediately upon waking, even before leaving bed, can help settle your stomach before any nausea sets in.
Certain scents can be triggers, so having something to sniff that counters these odors can be beneficial. Some women find that the scent of lemons or other citrus fruits can alleviate nausea.
Are there any home treatments for morning sickness?
Ginger has been a popular natural remedy for soothing an upset stomach for ages. Including ginger in your daily meals whenever you can might assist in combating nausea. You can enjoy ginger in soups, beverages, sweets, or supplements. If all else fails, brewing a cup of ginger tea or adding fresh ginger slices to hot water can offer relief. Additionally, some women discover that sucking on hard candy distracts them from stomach discomfort, so having peppermints, lemon candies, or lollipops on hand could be beneficial.
Are there any medications that can decrease morning sickness?
Certain medications for morning sickness can be safe and effective. It’s important to seek advice from your healthcare provider before trying any supplements or over-the-counter drugs. Your doctor may recommend specific medications like antiemetics to alleviate nausea or antihistamines, typically used for allergies but also helpful in treating nausea. Always prioritize your health and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Whether you’re a new mom-to-be or have been through a pregnancy before, First Choice is committed to providing support and to answer any questions you may have throughout your pregnancy.
Call or visit one of our 5 locations for no-cost pregnancy support today.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/morning-sickness/symptoms-causes/syc-20375254
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16566-morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/morning-sickness/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20375260
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