Typically, morning sickness causes nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy. Despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day or night. Morning sickness can affect your appetite, energy, and mood, but usually does not cause harm to your baby. In some cases, morning sickness can be severe and require medical attention. This article will explain possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of morning sickness.
Causes of Morning Sickness
The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown, but it may be related to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. There are certain chemicals in your brain and stomach that are affected by these changes, including serotonin, dopamine, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). They can affect your sense of smell, taste, and nausea.
Morning sickness may also be caused by the following factors:
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Motion sickness, migraines, or other causes of nausea
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Twins or multiples
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Eating a high-fat or spicy diet
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Stressed, anxious, or depressed
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Morning sickness in the family
Symptoms of Morning Sickness
Symptoms of morning sickness vary from person to person and may change over time.
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Vomiting or nausea
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Food aversions or loss of appetite
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Drooling or salivation
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The ability to detect smells or odors
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Drowsiness or fatigue
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Dizziness or headache
Symptoms of morning sickness usually begin around the sixth week of pregnancy and peak around the ninth week. They usually improve by the second trimester, but some women continue to suffer from morning sickness after the second trimester.
Diagnosis of Morning Sickness
The diagnosis of morning sickness is usually based on your self-reported symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam and test to rule out other possible causes, such as:
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Infection of the urinary tract
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Disorders of the thyroid
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Disease of the gallbladder
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Infection of the gastrointestinal tract
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The effects of food poisoning
You and your baby's health may also be monitored by your doctor by checking your weight, blood pressure, urine, and blood.
Treatment of Morning Sickness
Treatment for morning sickness depends on the severity and impact of your symptoms. Most morning sickness can be managed with home remedies and lifestyle changes, such as:
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Small, frequent, bland meals throughout the day
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Foods or smells that trigger nausea should be avoided
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Keeping hydrated, especially with water, ginger ale, or lemonade
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With your doctor's approval, take vitamin B6 supplements or ginger capsules
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Applying pressure to the inner wrist or wearing an acupressure wristband
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Sleeping and resting enough
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Exercises such as breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help you relax
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Finding emotional support from your partner, family, friends, or a counselor
The following medications may be prescribed by your doctor if your nausea and vomiting are severe or interfere with your daily functioning:
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Doxylamine or diphenhydramine are antihistamines
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Metoclopramide and ondansetron are antiemetics
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Prednisone or methylprednisolone are steroids
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Doxylamine and pyridoxine combination therapy
You should consult your doctor before taking any medications, as some medications may cause side effects or harm your baby.
Prevention of Morning Sickness
Although there is no sure way to prevent morning sickness, you can reduce your chances of getting it or make it less severe by taking the following steps:
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Prenatal vitamins during and before pregnancy
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Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, and drugs
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Maintaining a healthy diet by eating a balanced and nutritious diet
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Toxins and infections should be avoided
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Prenatal care and regular checkups are essential
