What causes morning sickness in pregnant women. How long does morning sickness typically last. Are there effective home remedies for managing morning sickness. What are the potential complications of severe morning sickness. When should a pregnant woman seek medical attention for morning sickness.

The Nature and Prevalence of Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is a common phenomenon experienced by many pregnant women, characterized by nausea and vomiting that can occur at any time of the day. Despite its name, this condition is not limited to the morning hours. It typically begins during the first month of pregnancy and persists until the 14th to 16th week, although some women may experience symptoms throughout their entire pregnancy.

How common is morning sickness? Studies indicate that:

• Most pregnant women experience at least some degree of nausea
• Approximately one-third of pregnant women experience vomiting
• The severity and duration can vary significantly between individuals and pregnancies

Unraveling the Causes of Morning Sickness

While the exact cause of morning sickness remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to its onset and severity:

Hormonal Changes

Rapid fluctuations in hormone levels, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, are thought to play a significant role in triggering morning sickness. These hormonal changes can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to nausea and vomiting.

Blood Sugar Fluctuations

Lower blood sugar levels during early pregnancy may contribute to feelings of nausea. This is why eating small, frequent meals can often help alleviate symptoms.

Heightened Sense of Smell

Many pregnant women report an increased sensitivity to odors, which can trigger nausea. This heightened sense of smell is likely due to hormonal changes and may serve as a protective mechanism for the developing fetus.

Genetic Factors

There is evidence to suggest that there may be a genetic component to morning sickness. Women whose mothers or sisters experienced severe morning sickness may be more likely to experience it themselves.

Impact of Morning Sickness on Pregnancy

Is morning sickness harmful to the baby? In most cases, morning sickness does not pose a risk to the developing fetus. However, there are some important considerations:

• Mild weight loss during the first trimester is not uncommon and is generally not harmful to the baby
• Severe vomiting leading to significant weight loss or dehydration may require medical attention
• The presence or absence of morning sickness does not predict the health of the pregnancy

Managing Morning Sickness: Effective Home Remedies

While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for morning sickness, several home remedies and lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms:

Dietary Adjustments

• Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to avoid an empty stomach
• Consume dry, bland foods like crackers or toast upon waking
• Opt for high-protein, complex carbohydrate snacks
• Stay hydrated by sipping water or other clear fluids throughout the day
• Avoid fatty, spicy, or strong-smelling foods that may trigger nausea

Ginger Products

Ginger has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea. Consider incorporating ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger soda into your diet. However, consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies.

Acupressure and Acupuncture

Some women find relief through acupressure wristbands or acupuncture treatments. If considering acupuncture, ensure you consult a practitioner trained in treating pregnant women.

Vitamin B6 Supplementation

Increasing vitamin B6 intake through diet or supplements may help alleviate nausea. Discuss appropriate dosage with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While morning sickness is generally not a cause for concern, there are instances where medical intervention may be necessary. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe, persistent vomiting
• Inability to keep fluids down for 24 hours or more
• Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or dizziness
• Significant weight loss
• Blood in vomit

Hyperemesis Gravidarum: When Morning Sickness Becomes Severe

In rare cases, some women experience a severe form of morning sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum. This condition is characterized by:

• Persistent, severe vomiting
• Dehydration
• Weight loss of more than 5% of pre-pregnancy body weight
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Nutritional deficiencies

Hyperemesis gravidarum requires medical treatment and may necessitate hospitalization in some cases. Treatment options may include intravenous fluids, anti-nausea medications, and nutritional support.

The Psychological Impact of Morning Sickness

The experience of morning sickness can have significant psychological effects on pregnant women. It’s important to acknowledge and address these aspects:

Emotional Stress

Persistent nausea and vomiting can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and even depression. It’s crucial for women experiencing morning sickness to have a strong support system and to communicate their feelings with their healthcare provider.

Impact on Daily Life

Severe morning sickness can interfere with work, social activities, and family responsibilities. This disruption can add to the emotional burden of the condition. Employers and family members should be understanding and accommodating of a woman’s needs during this time.

Coping Strategies

Developing coping strategies can help manage the psychological impact of morning sickness:

• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Join support groups or online communities for women experiencing similar challenges
• Engage in gentle physical activities, if approved by your healthcare provider
• Seek professional counseling if feelings of anxiety or depression persist

The Role of Partner and Family Support

The support of partners and family members can significantly impact a woman’s experience with morning sickness. Here are ways they can help:

• Assist with household chores and meal preparation
• Be understanding of food aversions and cravings
• Provide emotional support and encouragement
• Attend prenatal appointments to stay informed and involved
• Help research and implement management strategies

By actively participating in the pregnancy journey, partners and family members can help alleviate some of the stress associated with morning sickness and create a more positive experience for the expectant mother.

Morning Sickness and Nutritional Considerations

Maintaining proper nutrition during pregnancy, especially when experiencing morning sickness, can be challenging. Here are some strategies to ensure adequate nutrient intake:

Timing of Prenatal Vitamins

Taking prenatal vitamins at night may help reduce nausea. If vitamins continue to cause discomfort, consult your healthcare provider about alternative formulations or timing.

Focus on Nutrient-Dense Foods

When appetite is limited, prioritize foods that provide essential nutrients:

• Lean proteins (eggs, chicken, fish)
• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables (as tolerated)
• Dairy or dairy alternatives for calcium

Liquid Nutrition

If solid foods are difficult to tolerate, consider nutrient-rich smoothies or soups. These can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration in an easily digestible form.

Small, Frequent Meals

Eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day can help maintain blood sugar levels and reduce nausea. This approach also allows for a greater variety of nutrients to be consumed over the course of the day.

Morning sickness, while challenging, is a common and typically manageable aspect of pregnancy. By understanding its causes, implementing effective management strategies, and seeking support when needed, expectant mothers can navigate this phase of pregnancy more comfortably. Remember that each pregnancy is unique, and what works for one woman may not work for another. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider throughout your pregnancy to ensure the best possible care for both you and your developing baby.

Morning sickness Information | Mount Sinai

Nausea in the morning – females; Vomiting in the morning – females; Nausea during pregnancy; Pregnancy nausea; Pregnancy vomiting; Vomiting during pregnancy

Morning sickness is nausea and vomiting that can occur at any time of the day during pregnancy.

Morning sickness usually begins during the first month of pregnancy and continues until the 14th to 16th week. Although, some women can have nausea and vomiting through their entire pregnancy. Morning sickness is very common and does not hurt the baby in any way. The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown. However, it may be caused by either hormonal changes or lower blood sugar during early pregnancy. Emotional stress, traveling, or some foods can aggravate the problem.

Considerations

Morning sickness is very common. Most pregnant women have at least some nausea, and about one third have vomiting.

Morning sickness most often begins during the first month of pregnancy and continues through the 14th to 16th week (3rd or 4th month). Some women have nausea and vomiting through their entire pregnancy.

Morning sickness does not hurt the baby in any way unless you lose weight, such as with severe vomiting. Mild weight loss during the first trimester is not uncommon when women have moderate symptoms, and is not harmful to the baby.

The amount of morning sickness during one pregnancy does not predict how you will feel in future pregnancies.

Causes

The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown. It may be caused by hormone changes or lower blood sugar during early pregnancy. Emotional stress, fatigue, traveling, or some foods can make the problem worse. Nausea in pregnancy is more common and can be worse with twins or triplets.

Home Care

Try to keep a positive attitude. Remember that in most cases morning sickness stops after the first 3 or 4 months of pregnancy. To reduce nausea, try:

• A few soda crackers or dry toast when you first wake up, even before you get out of bed in the morning.
• A small snack at bedtime and when getting up to go to the bathroom at night.
• Avoid large meals; instead, snack as often as every 1 to 2 hours during the day and drink plenty of fluids.
• Eat foods high in protein and complex carbohydrates, such as peanut butter on apple slices or celery; nuts; cheese; crackers; milk; cottage cheese; and yogurt; avoid foods high in fat and salt, but low in nutrition.
• Ginger products (proven effective against morning sickness) such as ginger tea, ginger candy, and ginger soda.

Here are some more tips:

• Acupressure wrist bands or acupuncture may help. You can find these bands in drug, health food, and travel and boating stores. If you are thinking about trying acupuncture, talk to your doctor and look for an acupuncturist who is trained to work with pregnant women.
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
• Avoid taking medicines for morning sickness. If you do, ask a doctor first.
• Keep air flowing through rooms to reduce odors.
• When you feel nauseated, bland foods like gelatin, broth, ginger ale, and saltine crackers can soothe your stomach.
• Take your prenatal vitamins at night. Increase vitamin B6 in your diet by eating whole grains, nuts, seeds, and peas and beans (legumes). Talk to your doctor about possibly taking vitamin B6 supplements. Doxylamine is another medicine that is sometimes prescribed and is known to be safe.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if:

• Morning sickness does not improve, despite trying home remedies.
• Nausea and vomiting continue beyond your 4th month of pregnancy. This happens to some women. In most cases this is normal, but you should have it checked out.
• You vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds. (Call immediately.)
• You vomit more than 3 times per day or you cannot keep food or liquid down.
• Your urine appears to be concentrated and dark, or you urinate very infrequently.
• You have excessive weight loss.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

Your provider will do a physical examination, including a pelvic exam, and look for any signs of dehydration.

Your provider may ask the following questions:

• Are you only nauseated or do you also vomit?
• Does the nausea and vomiting occur every day?
• Does it last throughout the day?
• Can you keep down any food or fluid?
• Have you been traveling?
• Has your schedule changed?
• Are you feeling stressed?
• What foods have you been eating?
• Do you smoke?
• What have you done to try to feel better?
• What other symptoms do you have — headaches, abdominal pain, breast tenderness, dry mouth, excessive thirst, unintended weight loss?

Your provider may do the following tests:

• Blood tests including CBC and blood chemistry (chem-20)
• Urine tests
• Ultrasound

Antony KM, Racusin DA, Aagaard K, Dildy GA. Maternal physiology. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe’s Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 3.

Bonthala N, Wong MS. Gastrointestinal diseases in pregnancy. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe’s Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 53.

Smith RP. Routine prenatal care: first trimester. In: Smith RP, ed. Netter’s Obstetrics and Gynecology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2018:chap 198.

Last reviewed on: 7/13/2021

Reviewed by: John D. Jacobson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

Causes, Risk Factors, and Treatments

Pregnancy is a beautiful thing. You’ve created life, and in a few months, you’ll have your precious bundle of joy in your arms.

But sometimes it’s not so beautiful. While many expectant mothers walk around with a pregnancy glow and a huge smile on their face, your experience might be less than picturesque — especially if instead of a glow and a smile, you’re developing a close relationship with your toilet since you can’t stop vomiting.

This is supposed to be the happiest time of your life, right? And deep down, maybe it is. But at the same time, nausea and vomiting can make even the most excited parent-to-be struggle to find that happiness.

Understanding the underlying cause of vomiting can keep this problem under control, so read on to learn about common causes of vomiting during pregnancy.

Morning sickness is a common cause of vomiting during pregnancy. But while it’s called morning sickness, nausea and vomiting can actually occur at any time of the day or night.

The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown, but it’s likely due to hormonal changes that wreak havoc on your body. It’s estimated that morning sickness occurs in up to 80 percent of all pregnancies, with nausea and vomiting starting around week six.

The good news is that symptoms typically improve during the second trimester, although some women have morning sickness their entire pregnancy — yikes.

The symptoms of morning sickness include nausea and vomiting. Interestingly, some women don’t even suspect a pregnancy until the first wave of morning sickness hits. After a few days of waking up sick to their stomach, they get a test to confirm or rule out a pregnancy.

But unfortunately, morning sickness isn’t the only thing to worry about during pregnancy, nor is it the only cause of vomiting during this “happy time of your life.”

Some women deal with extreme morning sickness — known as hyperemesis gravidarum — during their pregnancy. It’s likely caused by rising hormone levels.

If you have morning sickness, you may only vomit once a day and can manage nausea and vomiting. If you develop hyperemesis gravidarum, you may vomit more than three or four times a day and feel near-constant nausea.

The vomiting with hyperemesis gravidarum can become so bad that some pregnant women lose weight and risk dehydration due to an inability to keep foods and liquids down.

And if puking all day isn’t bad enough, this condition can also cause dizziness and lightheadedness.

Hyperemesis gravidarum symptoms tend to peak through weeks 9 to 13 and then improve. So symptoms may get better as you move farther along in the pregnancy.

This is a cause of vomiting during pregnancy that some pregnant women don’t expect.

While it’s easy to attribute any type of nausea and vomiting to morning sickness, the problem might actually be due to eating contaminated food during pregnancy.

Anyone is at risk for a foodborne illness, but pregnant women are especially at risk because pregnancy weakens the immune system. And as a result, it becomes harder for your body to fight off bacteria and germs.

Symptoms include those similar to morning sickness, such as nausea and vomiting. But unlike morning sickness, foodborne illnesses can cause other symptoms like headaches, body aches, and even a fever. These symptoms develop shortly after eating contaminated food — maybe within 24 to 48 hours.

The best way to protect yourself is to fully cook meats. Also, refrigerate foods shortly after cooking, wash all fruits and vegetables, and avoid unpasteurized juice, eggs, or milk.

While hormones are likely to blame for morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum, certain factors increase the risk of dealing with one or both problems during pregnancy. For example:

• You’re expecting multiples (twins, triplets, or more).
• You have a personal or family history of vomiting during pregnancy.
• You’re sensitive to certain smells or tastes.
• You have a history of migraines.
• You have a history of motion sickness.

The biggest risk for foodborne illness is eating raw, undercooked foods, or fruits and vegetables that haven’t been washed.

Keep in mind that while the above are common causes of vomiting during pregnancy, other problems could arise during a pregnancy that may cause vomiting, too. These include:

• preeclampsia
• gallstones
• ulcers
• appendicitis
• migraine

Run-of-the-mill morning sickness during pregnancy is uncomfortable, but you’re not likely to experience major complications.

But if you develop hyperemesis gravidarum, severe vomiting can lead to dehydration or decreased urination. And if you’re unable to replenish your fluid level, you may need to be hospitalized and receive intravenous (IV) fluids.

This condition can also cause liver damage, a B-vitamin deficiency, and poor growth weight in your developing child, so it’s important to discuss your options with a doctor.

Foodborne illnesses are nothing to play with, either. These illnesses, which can include salmonella poisoning and listeria, can cause premature delivery and even a miscarriage.

It’s also important to note that different types of vomiting can cause different issues. So while morning sickness might not lead to dehydration, hyperemesis gravidarum or a foodborne illness can, depending on the severity of vomiting.

Treatment for vomiting during pregnancy depends on the underlying cause, as well as the severity.

In the case of morning sickness, eating healthy snacks throughout the day like crackers or dry toast may lessen nausea and vomiting. For some women, morning sickness is worse on an empty stomach.

Sometimes, alternative therapies, such as aromatherapy, acupuncture, and acupressure can also provide relief.

Other ways to relieve symptoms include:

• sipping on water or ginger ale
• avoiding triggers, such as certain foods and smells
• taking prenatal vitamins
• using anti-nausea/anti-vomiting medications (if advised by a doctor)

Speak with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medications.

The same treatments can reduce the intensity of hyperemesis gravidarum. But because vomiting is more severe with this condition, you may need to receive nutrients and fluid through an IV in the hospital.

Your doctor may also prescribe medicine to stop nausea and vomiting. If these medications don’t work, you may need a steroid treatment.

Many foodborne illnesses have to run their course, but you should feel better within a few days. The main goal is to replace lost fluid and avoid dehydration. Eating small meals, sipping on Ginger ale, and drinking water or sports drinks can help you feel better and prevent dehydration.

But you should still speak with your doctor. If you have a foodborne illness caused by bacteria, you may need an antibiotic.

You don’t need a doctor for morning sickness that isn’t severe. Home remedies may be enough to cope with symptoms.

You should, however, call a doctor if you’re vomiting multiple times a day, and if you experience other symptoms like dizziness, a fast heart rate, or if you can’t keep liquids down.

While vomiting during pregnancy can be miserable, it’s also common and usually nothing to worry about. It happens in many pregnancies and doesn’t mean there’s a problem with you or your baby. But if you have any concerns or need reassurance, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.

Nausea and vomiting in pregnant women – what to do with toxicosis so as not to feel sick? | Blog

Nausea is a common symptom in pregnant women during the first trimester of pregnancy. Its manifestations range from mild to quite pronounced and can cause significant obstacles to normal nutrition.

Acute nausea and vomiting during pregnancy occurs in 50% of women. Realizing that every second pregnant woman is faced with this condition, a dietitian, gastroenterologist Oleg Vitalievich Shvets helped us figure out the causes, possible consequences and shared tips on how to alleviate her condition during toxicosis and what to do so as not to feel sick.

In the article you will learn:

• What is toxicosis?
• Effects of toxicosis on the fetus?
• Causes of toxicosis
• Can I take vitamin complexes
• How to eat during toxicosis
• What to do in case of complications
• How to curb nausea?

What is toxicosis?

As we wrote above, every second pregnant woman faces acute nausea and vomiting in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the English-language literature, the term “morning sickness” is used for this condition, although in fact attacks of nausea and vomiting can occur at any time of the day, and not just in the morning.

Significant hormonal changes during the first months of pregnancy are believed to be the cause of the malaise. In most pregnant women, the symptoms of nausea and vomiting are significantly weakened or disappear before 12-14 weeks.

However, in 1-3% of pregnancies, nausea and vomiting are severe and become debilitating – this condition is called toxicosis or preeclampsia of pregnancy . In English-speaking countries, the term hyperemesis (Hyperemesis Gravidarum) is used.

Toxicosis can be potentially life threatening and often requires specialized treatment: intravenous fluids for dehydration or antiemetics.

The main symptoms of toxicosis are:

• severe persistent nausea and vomiting,
• suboptimal nutrition,
• dehydration and rapid weight loss.

This condition can significantly impair routine and quality of life, especially if women work or have other children in need of care.

Effects of toxemia on the fetus

Women with toxemia worry that the condition will harm their unborn child. In fact, with moderate toxicosis, the fetus receives all the nutrients necessary for healthy growth and development.

But there is a hypothetical risk that weight loss during pregnancy could result in a low birth weight baby.

. gonadotropin (CGT).

➡️ Nausea and vomiting during previous pregnancies or family history (if this happened in your family). Being aware of the risk helps prepare mentally for the next pregnancy.

➡️ Obesity – body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more at the beginning of pregnancy. If you are planning to have a baby, losing weight before pregnancy is beneficial and reduces the chance of morning sickness.

➡️ Vitamin B6 Deficiency
Research indicates a link between vitamin B6 levels and nausea during pregnancy. Vitamin B6 contributes to the optimal use and storage of energy by the body. If you eat a healthy, balanced diet before conception and during pregnancy, you will usually get the amount of B6 you need. At the same time, with insufficient intake of food or absorption of nutrients, its deficiency may occur.
Try to eat enough foods containing vitamin B6: brown rice, whole grain bread, fish and poultry, fortified breakfast cereals, nuts, green leafy vegetables.

Can I take vitamin complexes during pregnancy?

Whether or not you can take vitamin complexes is a matter worth discussing with your doctor.

If you have no contraindications, the appointment and use of special vitamin-mineral complexes for pregnant women is possible. They, in particular, contain the optimal amount of vitamin B6, and also help to supply the body with the necessary vitamins, minerals and trace elements in case of nausea and vomiting of pregnant women.

How to eat with toxicosis?

It is important for a pregnant woman that the necessary amount of energy, micro, macro, nutrients and water enter the body along with food. During toxicosis, when a woman is constantly worried about nausea and vomiting, this is sometimes quite difficult to do.

Useful Dietary Advice for Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy:

1. If you are having trouble eating regularly during pregnancy due to nausea and vomiting, then there is no need to worry about the calorie content of your individual meals.
2. Determine the time of day when you are easiest and can eat, and then increase your food intake at that time. Try to eat foods that are high in energy and protein to get the maximum amount of nutrients from a smaller serving.
3. Enrich foods to make them more nutritious. For example:

• add yogurt, cream or condensed milk to fruit;
• eat vegetables with melted butter;
• put cream and cheese in mashed potatoes, pasta dishes, soups and stews;
• Eat dairy and sour-milk products with normal fat content.

Restrictions on sugary and fatty foods such as chocolate, biscuits, cakes and sugary drinks should be lifted temporarily. These foods will increase your energy intake when food is scarce. But be careful not to overindulge in these foods, they contain empty calories.

• cereal with milk,
• tuna or chicken sandwiches,
• cream cheese on toast,
• soups,
• crackers,
• bread sticks and other dry starchy foods.

If you are losing weight, your doctor or dietitian may recommend a short course of oral supplementation. In particular, in the form of a milkshake, fruit juice, soup or yogurt, according to your preference. They contain plenty of protein and additional vitamins and minerals to help restore energy and strength.

Dealing with complications

Dehydration, malnutrition and prolonged vomiting can lead to associated symptoms such as constipation, sleep problems, acid reflux or heartburn, etc.

Some of them will help to minimize nutrition.

➡️ Constipation

• Drink more fluids.
• Increase your intake of fiber from fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Include three to four kiwi fruits in your meal plan.
• Try dried fruits or prunes for breakfast.

➡️ Chapped lips and mouth ulcers

• Drink plenty.
• Take a multivitamin recommended for pregnant women.

➡️ Acid reflux or heartburn

• Eat slowly while sitting upright.
• Eat small meals and often.
• Avoid fatty and spicy foods.
• Do not eat 2 hours before bed.

➡️ Trouble sleeping

• Drink a warm milky drink before going to bed.
• You should also eat some unsweetened crackers.

➡️ Vitamin and mineral deficiency

• Eat a balanced diet.
• Eat little and often, every 1-2 hours.
• Take a multivitamin recommended for pregnant women at the time of day when you are least likely to vomit.

How to curb nausea?

• Drink more frequently throughout the day. Suitable cold and carbonated drinks, smoothies and fruit juices.
• Try lollipops, ice cream and frozen fruit juice ice cubes. They are also a great way to stay hydrated.
• It is easier for the stomach to digest soft foods. Avoid overly spicy foods, sugary desserts, fatty or fried foods. If you can’t digest meat and fish, eat more plant-based protein sources like beans, chickpeas, and lentils.
• Dry foods such as crackers, toast or regular biscuits are often better tolerated.
• A small study found that fresh ginger root or ginger oral capsules at 250 mg 4 times a day can help with severe nausea (on a four-day course). But, if you are taking anticoagulants, use ginger with caution. You can also try gingerbread cookies or other products with ginger.
• Peppermint and chamomile teas are effective for some women.

❇️ Important! If you have persistent nausea, let alone vomiting, this is a reason to seek emergency medical care.

Patients who monitor their pregnancy in Leleka antenatal clinics in Pushcha-Voditsa on Obolon and Pechersk in Kiev, with any complications during pregnancy or deterioration in well-being, can always seek help from their obstetrician-gynecologist who monitors pregnancy. If specialized assistance is needed, the doctor will give a referral to our pregnancy pathology department, where the pregnant patient will receive qualified medical care for toxicosis and vomiting in a comfortable hospital.

We wish you an easy and pleasant pregnancy and hope you don’t need our advice.❤️

Nausea during pregnancy

usually in the first trimester. Nausea usually occurs more frequently than vomiting. These conditions are often referred to as “morning sickness,” which ranges from mild discomfort to discomfort associated with weight loss, dehydration, and food intolerance. Such women feel that they lack understanding of their condition from relatives and colleagues. Although even mild nausea is definitely an unpleasant feeling, it does not harm the mother and the unborn child and is perceived as a sign of a healthy pregnancy and can be treated with non-drug remedies. It is vital that such pregnant women receive information and support, and be aware of the available alternative methods of correction that would help them cope with the situation.

Nausea usually starts during the first four to eight weeks of pregnancy and usually resolves by sixteen weeks.

The causes of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy are not fully understood. However, studies show that they may be caused by the action of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the secretion of which begins shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus. Women with severe morning sickness have higher hCG levels than other pregnant women. In addition, women with multiple pregnancies, who are more likely to suffer from morning sickness, also have higher levels of hCG. Estrogens act in the same way, the secretion of which increases during pregnancy. Hormonal imbalances, typical during pregnancy, cause erratic contractions and relaxation of the abdominal muscles. Other causes of this physiological response include nutritional deficiencies, certain foods and odors, fatigue, stress, and stomach sensitivities. It is believed that nausea and vomiting during pregnancy are signs of the viability of the placental tissue. However, the absence of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is not a cause for concern. Some women with healthy pregnancies sometimes do not experience morning sickness.
Management of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy depends on the severity of the symptoms. Treatment may begin with diet, if necessary resort to more aggressive regimens, including antiemetics, in some cases hospitalization or even total parenteral nutrition is required. Most researchers prefer to always start with a change in diet and only add drugs as needed.

What can help with nausea:

• Increase your vitamin B6 intake through foods and supplements (after consulting your doctor).

• Avoid foods and smells that cause nausea.

• Eat small meals every 2-4 hours.

• Avoid fried, fatty and spicy foods, chocolate.

• Drink less fluids with meals and drink smaller amounts between meals instead.

• Sip clear liquids (soft drinks, apple juice, tea or broth) when vomiting occurs.

• Eat dry foods (cereals, toast, crackers, crackers, dryers) instead of more rich foods.

• Suck on lollipops.

• Ventilate the room frequently.

• Take outdoor walks.

• Rest or sleep often. Doesn’t lie down immediately after eating. In the morning, do not get up immediately after waking up, but relax a little to calm the stomach and prevent severe nausea.

• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke as this may aggravate symptoms. Smell ginger or lemon.

• Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm yourself and your upset stomach.

• Always try to think positively. Negative thoughts or panic can cause a constant feeling of nausea and therefore increase the frequency of vomiting.

What causes loss of appetite and eating disorders during pregnancy?

Many women experience loss of appetite during pregnancy.
Sometimes food may seem unattractive, and even when you feel hungry, you cannot force yourself to eat. Lack of desire to eat may be accompanied by a lack of interest in all foods. Food cravings and aversion to certain foods are common during pregnancy. The most common food aversions are milk, meat, pork, and liver. There is no evidence that food cravings are associated with nutrient deficiencies. Their cause remains a mystery. However, you can satisfy your food cravings within reasonable limits by adding nutrients to your diet.

Fluctuating appetite is normal as the body goes through many changes during pregnancy. But, it must be kept in mind that loss of appetite is different from aversion to certain specific foods, which is also quite common during pregnancy.

Pregnant women may also experience loss of appetite and eating disorders due to various diseases such as tumors, Addison’s disease, depression.

Pregnant women are more susceptible to mental health problems (anorexia, bulimia, depression) due to various physical and biochemical changes. Depression during pregnancy has been linked to reduced appetite for healthy foods and increased appetite for unhealthy foods, reduced intake of important nutrients (folic acid, fatty acids, iron, zinc).

Mental health disorders are often not diagnosed during pregnancy because of the shame some pregnant women feel about talking about them. If there are symptoms of depression or anxiety, a doctor should be consulted urgently, as malnutrition can lead to many pregnancy-related complications (anemia and weight loss in the mother, premature birth, fetal growth retardation, mental retardation and behavioral problems in children).

What to eat if you lose your appetite?

There are nutritionally sufficient foods that should be prioritized if you have no appetite. This helps to ensure sufficient nutrients for the mother and fetus.

Examples of meals that are easy to prepare, have small portions, but are filling and not heavy on the stomach:

Snacks rich in protein cold chicken, turkey or ham.