What is Ptyalism Gravidarum?
Ptyalism gravidarum, also called hypersalivation or sialorrhoea (drooling), is when your body produces an unusually high amount of saliva during pregnancy. You might feel like your mouth is always watery, or you may even need to spit frequently to manage the excess. Some people describe it as feeling like they’re “drooling up a river.”Your salivary glands normally produce about one and a half litres of saliva daily, but you don’t usually notice because you swallow it unconsciously. But during pregnancy, you might either be producing more saliva or swallowing less, leading to that noticeable buildup.
In this article:
When Does Increased Saliva Production Start and Stop?
Salivating excessively often begins in the first trimester, around 4 to 6 weeks when pregnancy is first detected. For many people, it starts alongside other early symptoms like nausea or vomiting.Typically, this symptom eases up by the second trimester, around 14 weeks. For some though, it can stick around a lot longer. You may still notice it in the second or even the third trimester. If you are one of the few who deal with it later in pregnancy, don’t worry. It’s just annoying, not dangerous. The symptom usually disappears completely after you give birth.
What Causes Ptyalism in Pregnancy?
The exact reasons behind ptyalism gravidarum aren’t fully understood. Although several factors during pregnancy can contribute to it:- Hormonal changes: Your body experiences a wave of hormonal changes during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. These shifts can affect your salivary glands and make them produce more saliva than you are used to.
- Nausea and morning sickness: When you feel nauseous, you may try not to swallow too much because it can make the queasy feeling worse. This can cause saliva to pool in your mouth. People with severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) are more likely to experience ptyalism in pregnancy.
- Acid reflux and heartburn: Heartburn is quite common in pregnancy because your growing uterus puts pressure on your stomach. When stomach acid irritates your oesophagus, your salivary glands respond by making more saliva to neutralise the acid and protect your oesophagus.
- Dental issues: Tooth decay or oral infections can trigger increased saliva production. That’s why keeping up with dental check-ups during pregnancy is so important.
- Irritants or toxins: Salivating excessively can sometimes happen when you are exposed to smoke, pesticides, or certain medications, as your body reacts to these irritants.
- Anxiety: The physical and emotional stress of pregnancy might also contribute to excess saliva.
How Does Increased Saliva Affect You?
Ptyalism in pregnancy doesn’t pose a risk to your baby, but it can impact your day-to-day life. You might find yourself constantly spitting into tissues or a cup. Some people also notice a bitter taste, which can make the nausea feel even worse. In rare cases, you may notice swollen salivary glands that can disturb your sleep.Talk to your doctor if the excess saliva during pregnancy is making you feel self-conscious or affecting your quality of life. They can help you figure out if something specific is making it worse and suggest ways to cope.
Tips to Manage Ptyalism in Pregnancy
These are some practical tips to help you deal with the extra spit:- Brush and floss regularly: Brushing and flossing every day can help get rid of acids and bacteria, especially if vomiting is making things worse. Rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash a few times a day can also keep your mouth fresh
- Eat smaller, frequent meals: Instead of three large meals, try eating five smaller, balanced meals throughout the day. Avoid starchy foods like white bread, as they can mix with bacteria in your mouth and lead to plaque buildup.
- Stay hydrated: Keep a water bottle handy and take small sips throughout the day. helps you stay hydrated and makes the extra saliva feel less bothersome.
- Suck on toffees: Sucking on toffees can make the extra saliva less noticeable and improve its taste. Go for sour ones like raw mango or tamarind (imli). These flavoured toffees can also help with nausea.
- Spit when necessary: If swallowing saliva during pregnancy makes you feel sick, it’s okay to spit it out into a tissue or a small cup. Just avoid spitting too much, as it could lead to electrolyte imbalances.
- Suck on ice: Popping an ice cube in your mouth can give relief when you are salivating excessively and also keep your mouth feeling fresh.
Dealing with ptyalism in pregnancy can feel like an unexpected and frustrating symptom, but the good part is that it does not last forever and it will not harm your baby. Simple steps like sipping water, sucking on toffees, or paying attention to your triggers can make it easier to cope.
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FAQs on Why Your Mouth Feels Full of Saliva When Pregnant
- Is excess saliva first sign of pregnancy?
Excess saliva is not usually the very first sign of pregnancy. It tends to appear in the early weeks of the first trimester. - What is ptyalism pregnancy?
Ptyalism in pregnancy is the medical term for salivating excessively. It is often linked to hormonal changes and nausea.