Managing Nausea and Vomiting: Solutions for Morning Sickness

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, sometimes known as morning sickness, are quite frequent in the early stages. It may affect you at any time of day or night, and you may feel nauseous all day. However, there are several dietary and lifestyle adjustments you may make to help alleviate symptoms.

Pregatips
During pregnancy, nausea and vomiting are referred to as morning sickness. It is a frequent illness that affects up to 70% of pregnant women in their first trimester (the first three months). Despite the name, "morning" sickness may occur at any time of day. There are many at-home remedies for morning sickness, including dietary and lifestyle adjustments. Some obstetricians suggest using over-the-counter (OTC) drugs to relieve nausea. Most people's symptoms improve by the second trimester (which begins at 14 weeks).

How Soon May Morning Sickness Begin?

It may begin as early as the sixth week of pregnancy; however, the precise date varies. Most individuals have symptoms of morning sickness before nine weeks of pregnancy.

When Does Morning Sickness Peak?

Most individuals have their strongest morning sickness between eight and ten weeks of pregnancy. However, this period varies, and not everyone's symptoms "peak" simultaneously.

What Causes Morning Sickness?

The exact reason for morning sickness is unknown, but doctors think it is a combination of physical and hormonal changes. It could be caused by:
  • Low blood sugar
  • An increase in pregnancy hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and oestrogen
  • Blood pressure fluctuates
  • Changes in metabolism
Morning sickness may be made worse by:
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Being too fatigued
  • Eating or smelling certain foods
  • Motion sickness
  • Hot or warm weather

Management & Treatment

Dietary adjustments for morning sickness

  • To soothe your stomach in the morning, eat a few crackers or toast. Keep a few crackers beside your bed and consume a few before getting up.
  • Eat numerous modest meals every day rather than three large ones. Do not miss meals.
  • Avoid eating hot and greasy meals. Consume bland meals such as bananas, rice, dry bread, plain baked potatoes, gelatin, broth, eggs, and applesauce.
  • Consume healthy, protein-rich snacks in between meals, such as yoghurt, peanut butter on apple slices or celery, cheese, or almonds.
  • Drink lots of fluids, particularly water, throughout the day. Avoid caffeinated drinks.
  • When you're not at home, always have a snack bag with you.
  • Make tea with fresh grated ginger or try ginger candy.

Lifestyle changes for morning sickness

  • Take your prenatal vitamins with food. If your prenatal supplement includes iron, take it after bedtime. Talk to your doctor about different vitamin choices
  • Avoid odours, flashing lights, and other conditions that irritate you and cause nausea
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Maintain good ventilation in your rooms, use a fan, or step outdoors for some fresh air on occasion
  • Smell fresh and pleasant aromas like lemon, orange, or mint
  • Do not lay down after eating
  • Rinse your mouth after vomiting. This may help protect your teeth from the acid found in vomit

Alternative treatments for nausea during pregnancy

Other treatments may help alleviate nausea. Consult your healthcare practitioner before attempting these:
  • Acupressure wristbands deliver pressure to particular places on the wrist
  • Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into certain places of your skin
Fortunately, most individuals have less morning sickness as they enter their second trimester. Changing your lifestyle and dietary habits may provide some comfort until the symptoms subside. Inform your obstetrician if you are vomiting up multiple times per day, not eating, and losing weight. They'll want to make sure you're receiving the nutrients you need.

FAQs on Managing Nausea and Vomiting: Solutions for Morning Sickness

  1. What reduces nausea quickly?Tips for feeling better include:
    • Getting enough fresh air
    • You may distract yourself by listening to music or watching a movie
    • Take frequent sips of a cool beverage
    • Consume foods containing ginger, such as ginger cookies (as per advice from doctor)
    • Eat smaller and more frequent meals
  2. At what hCG level does nausea occur?It varies from woman to woman, but symptoms are most severe around 9 or 10 weeks, when hCG levels are at their peak. At 11 weeks, hCG levels begin to decline, and by 15 weeks, they have fallen almost 50% from their high.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr Neerja Goel, Senior Gynecologist, Shardacare- Healthcity and Dr. Nazia Dalwai, Gynecologist & Obstetrician, Mumbai