What to expect when you're working with morning sickness
If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, you are not alone. Morning sickness affects many women during pregnancy, usually in the first trimester but sometimes throughout the entire pregnancy. It can be tough to deal with, but there are some things you can do to manage it. Here is what to expect when you're working with morning sickness during pregnancy.
1. What is Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness is a term used to describe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It affects up to 80% of pregnant women and can start as early as the first few weeks of pregnancy. Despite the name "morning sickness," it can happen at any time of day.
2. What Causes Morning Sickness?
While the exact cause of morning sickness is unknown, it is believed to be related to the rise in hormone levels during pregnancy. The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is thought to be one of the main culprits, but estrogen and progesterone levels are also believed to play a role.
3. Symptoms of Morning Sickness
The main symptoms of morning sickness are nausea and vomiting. Some women may also experience dizziness, fatigue, and headaches. Symptoms can vary in severity and frequency, but they usually improve after the first trimester.
4. Tips for Managing Morning Sickness
There are several things you can do to manage morning sickness. Here are some tips:
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to keep your blood sugar levels stable and avoid an empty stomach.
- Avoid foods that trigger your nausea such as spicy or greasy foods.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Try ginger - ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger candies can help reduce nausea.
- Rest as much as you can and try to reduce stress levels.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about taking vitamin B6 supplements or prescription medication if your morning sickness is severe.
5. When to Seek Medical Help
If your morning sickness is severe or is preventing you from keeping food down, it may be time to seek medical help. Dehydration is a concern for pregnant women with severe nausea and vomiting, and it can lead to more serious complications. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- Inability to keep food or liquids down for more than 24 hours
- Severe abdominal pain or cramping
- High fever or chills
6. Coping with Morning Sickness
Morning sickness can be difficult to deal with, but remember that it is a normal part of pregnancy. Be patient with yourself and don't be afraid to ask for help from your partner or loved ones. Taking care of yourself and your baby is the most important thing, so don't hesitate to seek medical help if you need it.
In Conclusion
Morning sickness is a common experience during pregnancy, but it can be managed with some simple tips and tricks. Remember to eat small, frequent meals, avoid trigger foods, stay hydrated, and rest as much as possible. If your morning sickness is severe, seek medical help right away. Coping with morning sickness can be challenging, but by taking care of yourself and your baby, you can get through it and enjoy a healthy pregnancy.