Morning Sickness in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes & Remedies

Many women look forward to pregnancy and all the wonderfulness it brings. However, along with it comes a fair share of unpleasantness. In the early stages of pregnancy, women can experience numerous physical discomforts or early signs of pregnancy such as sore breasts, bloating and fatigue among others. For aeons, expecting mothers have struggled with morning sickness, a condition that is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Unfortunately, morning sickness may strike at any given time of the day, not just the morning. Many pregnant women all over the world struggle with morning sickness. As much as 70 to 80 per cent of women experience morning sickness to different degrees. Learning about the condition can empower women to manage it effectively and make pregnancy a lot more enjoyable.

• Causes of Morning Sickness
• Symptoms of Morning Sickness
• Remedies for Morning Sickness
• Tips for Managing Morning Sickness

There are many theories as to why morning sickness occurs, which are supported by scientists and medical professionals. While it cannot be pinpointed to a single factor, a combination of physical and hormonal changes is believed to play an important role. In the early stages of pregnancy, the human body has an increase of hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen, which cause morning sickness. However, it is important to note that morning sickness is not uniform in the women who experience it. Numerous factors such as stress, fatigue and even travel can worsen this condition. So much so, that mild discomfort can turn into an overwhelming ordeal.

It is believed that the gender of the unborn child may influence morning sickness. This take, however, remains controversial and inconclusive. Some studies suggest women carrying girls experience heightened symptoms of morning sickness. This is due to higher hormone levels. However, this is best regarded as a generalisation as every pregnancy is unique.

The symptoms of morning sickness are unsettling reminders of the body's remarkable transformation during the early stages of pregnancy.

Nausea: Nausea can be triggered by certain smells, foods or in some cases, even an empty stomach.

Vomiting: Oily and spicy food causes morning sickness. So, it is best to keep these types of foods at arm's length. Symptoms of morning sickness may peak during nine to twelve weeks. The second trimester often brings relief for some women. However, this does not include everyone as results vary from person to person.

• Food Aversions: In the early stages of pregnancy, certain foods may become unappealing. This may cause you to avoid specific smells and tastes that you could tolerate otherwise.

• Heightened Sensitivity To Smells: Some people experience a heightened sensitivity to smells in the early stages of pregnancy. Pleasant and unpleasant smells may cause nausea or vomiting.

• Tiredness And Fatigue: Fatigue is common along with morning sickness. This is due to the physical toll that nausea takes on a person. This could result in you wanting to rest and ultimately affects your day-to-day activities.

Fortunately, numerous morning sickness remedies do exist. These range from practical home remedies for morning sickness to more complex medical interventions.

• Ginger: Ginger is a friend when it comes to morning sickness. Sipping on ginger tea or eating ginger biscuits can alleviate nausea for many people. Similarly, incorporating smaller, more frequent meals can help keep the stomach settled. Getting sufficient rest, managing stress and keeping oneself hydrated are crucial steps for effective relief.

• Medication And Supplements: Women seeking supplements and medication can take prenatal vitamins at night instead of in the morning and experience lesser nausea. Furthermore, vitamin B6 supplements have been shown to curb symptoms for some women. It is highly recommended that a doctor be consulted to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

• Food Choices: Additionally, adhering to a non-oily, non-spicy diet and resorting to simple food can help provide respite from morning sickness.

A few practical tips for morning sickness always come in handy while navigating pregnancy sickness. Continue reading to gain more insight into the matter:

• Breakfast: Navigating the seas of pregnancy sickness can be smoother with some practical tips for morning sickness. Begin your day with a hearty yet gentle breakfast to stabilise blood sugar levels and keep dry snacks like crackers on your bedside table for those queasy morning moments.

• Unpleasant and Pleasant Scents: Try to avoid unpleasant scents that trigger nausea. Surround yourself with fragrances that uplift your senses such as lemon or peppermint. Based on your personal preference, you could choose any fragrance that appeals to you. These simple tips work as a great defence against pregnancy sickness. Instead, surround yourself with soothing fragrances such as lemon or peppermint. These simple strategies can serve as powerful bulwarks against the waves of pregnancy sickness.

Morning sickness in pregnancy may be unavoidable but by no means should it dampen the joys of pregnancy. Morning sickness can also be accompanied by vaginal discharge so be sure to check out Always’ panty liners to help you with it. For instance, Always Extra Protect pantyliner is built with odour neutralising technology that will add a bounce to your steps. Its extra-long size is sure to give you full coverage and the product is dermatologically tested for the comfort of your skin.

By using available information to their advantage, pregnant women can ensure their pregnancy is comfortable and a smooth ride. It is better to understand the symptoms of morning sickness and its many available remedies. This not only elevates the pregnancy experience but also makes it less daunting.

• Persistent Vomiting: If you are vomiting persistently and are unable to keep your food down, then you could have hyperemesis gravidarum, which warrants medical attention. This can lead to dehydration and weight loss and need treatment.

• Signs Of Dehydration: If your urine appears dark in colour or if you suffer from infrequent urination, dizziness or rapid heartbeat then you might be dehydrated. In such a situation, you must reach out to a healthcare professional.

• Inability To Eat Or Drink: If you cannot eat or drink properly for more than 24 hours, then you must seek medical help. This could potentially affect your nutrition and overall health during pregnancy.

• Weight Loss: Although atypical, if you notice weight loss due to morning sickness then consult your doctor.

• Abdominal Pain Or Fever: These symptoms aren't typically associated with morning sickness. Experiencing them may indicate another condition that requires medical evaluation.

• Concern Or Distress: If you have any other alarming symptoms, then you can consult a medical expert to ease your mind. A doctor could give you advice that is specific to your health.

If you are experiencing vomiting or any other signs of morning sickness and you suspect you may be pregnant, then make use of our Ovulation Tool and stay one step ahead of morning sickness.

Disclaimer:

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