Understanding and Managing Morning Sickness
Understanding and Managing Morning Sickness
Morning sickness, or nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP), typically starts around the sixth week of pregnancy. However, it can begin as early as the fourth week and may continue until the end of the first trimester, around the 12th to 14th week. In some cases, morning sickness may persist throughout the entire pregnancy, though this is less common.
This phenomenon, characterised by nausea and vomiting, can vary in intensity and duration. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and effective remedies for pregnancy morning sickness, providing valuable insights for mothers-to-be.
Causes
Morning sickness, also known as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), is a common occurrence that affects approximately 70-80% of pregnant women. While the exact causes are not fully understood, several factors contribute to the development of morning sickness:
Hormonal changes
The surge in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen, is believed to play a significant role in triggering morning sickness. These hormonal fluctuations can affect the gastrointestinal system and contribute to nausea.
Sensitivity to odours
Pregnant women often experience heightened sensitivity to smells, which can trigger nausea. Certain odours that were once tolerable may become overwhelming during pregnancy.
Increased stomach acidity
The rise in stomach acid levels during pregnancy can lead to irritation and nausea. This increased acidity is a common feature of morning sickness.
Symptoms
Morning sickness typically begins around the sixth week of pregnancy and peaks around the eighth to twelfth week. While it is commonly referred to as "morning" sickness, symptoms can occur at any time of the day.
Common symptoms include:
- Nausea: A feeling of queasiness or discomfort in the stomach.
- Vomiting: Some women may experience occasional or frequent vomiting episodes.
- Fatigue: Nausea and vomiting can contribute to feelings of tiredness and exhaustion.
- Food aversions: Certain foods may become unappealing or even intolerable during pregnancy.
- Salivation: Increased salivation is a common symptom associated with morning sickness.
Remedies
Managing morning sickness involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, medical interventions. Here are some effective remedies to alleviate morning sickness:
Dietary changes
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to help manage nausea.
- Avoid spicy, greasy, or strongly flavoured foods that may trigger nausea.
- Keep crackers or plain or ginger biscuits by your bedside and eat a few before getting out of bed in the morning.
Stay hydrated
- Sip on ginger tea or peppermint tea, both of which are known for their anti-nausea properties. We love the HotTea Mama Range of pregnancy teas.
- Drink plenty of fluids between meals to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration.
Ginger
- Incorporate ginger into your diet through ginger sweets, ginger biscuits, ginger ale, or ginger tea, as it has natural antiemetic properties.
Acupressure bands
- Consider using acupressure wristbands, which apply pressure to specific points on the wrist believed to alleviate nausea.
Prescription medications
- In severe cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage morning sickness. These medications should be discussed with a healthcare professional before use.
It's important to note that the term "morning sickness" can be misleading, as these symptoms can occur at any time of the day. The severity and duration of morning sickness can vary from woman to woman. Some may experience mild nausea, while others may have more intense symptoms.
While morning sickness can be challenging, it is often a temporary and normal part of your pregnancy. Understanding the causes, recognising the symptoms, and implementing effective remedies can help expectant mothers navigate this phase with greater ease.
If symptoms persist or become severe, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance and support. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure a healthy and comfortable pregnancy journey for both the mother and the growing baby.
You can find more information on morning sickness on the NHS website here.
