Morning sickness, despite its name, isn’t confined to the early hours—it can strike at any time of day or night. For many pregnant women, especially during the first trimester, it’s an unwelcome companion. Here’s a guide to understanding and managing this common pregnancy symptom.
What Is Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness refers to the nausea and vomiting experienced by about 75% of pregnant women during the first trimester. Despite its name, this condition isn’t limited to mornings. It can occur any time and usually begins around week 6 of pregnancy.
For some women, symptoms may start later, between weeks 7 and 9, and typically subside by weeks 12 to 16. However, a few women, particularly those expecting multiples, might experience nausea and vomiting throughout their pregnancy.
Symptoms of Morning Sickness
Morning sickness can manifest as:
- A queasy, nauseous feeling often likened to seasickness.
- Aversion to certain smells or foods, which can intensify nausea.
- Nausea that might lead to vomiting, particularly after meals.
- Hunger pangs or a “seasick” sensation that follows queasiness.
While morning sickness doesn’t harm your baby, consult a doctor if you:
- Struggle to keep food or liquids down.
- Experience weight loss or dehydration.
- Suspect your prenatal vitamins worsen your nausea.
- Feel lethargic, dizzy, or have flu-like symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of morning sickness isn’t fully understood, but experts believe pregnancy hormones are to blame. The hormone hCG, which peaks during early pregnancy, and increased levels of estrogen and progesterone may disrupt digestion, contributing to nausea.
A recent study also linked high levels of the hormone GDF15 to more severe morning sickness. Women with prior exposure to GDF15, however, appeared less affected during pregnancy.
You might be at higher risk if:
- You have a history of migraines or motion sickness.
- You’re pregnant with multiples, leading to higher hCG levels.
- It’s your first pregnancy, or you’ve had morning sickness in previous pregnancies.
- There’s a family history of morning sickness.
Morning Sickness vs. Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Some women experience hyperemesis gravidarum, a more severe form of pregnancy nausea affecting about 3% of pregnant women. This condition involves persistent vomiting (three or more times daily), dehydration, and weight loss. Unlike typical morning sickness, it often requires medical intervention.
Relief and Management Tips
While time is the only surefire cure for morning sickness, you can try the following remedies for relief:
- Avoid smells or foods that trigger nausea.
- Take prenatal vitamins with meals.
- Keep a snack, such as crackers, by your bedside to ease morning queasiness.
- Opt for small, frequent meals instead of three large ones.
- Brush your teeth after meals to keep your mouth fresh and reduce nausea triggers.
You can also discuss treatment options with your doctor, such as:
- Switching to a prenatal vitamin with less iron or more B6.
- Taking vitamin B6 supplements or doxylamine (found in Unisom SleepTabs).
- Prescription medications like Diclegis or Bonjesta, proven safe for pregnancy-related nausea.
- Anti-nausea drugs, such as Phenergan, Reglan, or scopolamine.
Alternative approaches like acupuncture, acupressure, and hypnosis may also provide relief. However, avoid using marijuana or THC-containing products for nausea, as these have not been proven safe during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Morning sickness, though unpleasant, is a natural part of early pregnancy for most women. Understanding its causes and symptoms and exploring remedies can help you manage it effectively. If your symptoms are severe, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure the health and safety of both you and your baby