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Morning Sickness

Do all women experience morning sickness

Only 50% of all women experience nausea, queasiness and vomiting. These symptoms are a reassuring sign that your hormones are doing their job. But if there is a total lack of symptoms, or you lose the ones that you previously had, it is important that you consult your doctor.

Will morning sickness affect me only in the mornings

Not at all. Some women experience discomfort only when they wake up in the mornings, others experience it anytime in the day or all day long. There is no fixed rule. Though it is termed morning sickness, it can strike on a regular basis at noon or even at night.

What causes morning sickness

The stem of the brain acts as the command center for nausea and vomiting. This area gets stimulated by the high levels of beta HCG (a pregnancy hormone) present in the blood in the first trimester. The uterine muscles are also in the process of stretching to capacity, and the muscle tissues of the digestive tract are starting to relax. This creates acid in the stomach, enhances your sense of smell, and makes digestion sluggish, and results in morning sickness. A woman whose command center is extremely sensitive is more likely to suffer severe symptoms. Besides this, stress and fatigue also plays their part in contributing to morning sickness.

How can my symptoms be alleviated

Carbohydrates and proteins combat nausea, so make sure you eat well
Fluids are lost due to vomiting, so you must increase your fluid intake. Drink fruit and vegetables juices, soups and broth. You could also try solids with a high water content e.g. melons, citrus fruits, lettuce
If you cannot manage to eat or drink, you could ask your doctor for an antenatal vitamin supplement
Let your eyes, nose and tongue guide you in selecting correct food. Avoid the sight and smell of food that makes you queasy
Avoid smoke and smokers
Eat smaller amounts at regular intervals. Low blood sugar is caused by long gaps between meals and can trigger nausea. Consequently eat before nausea strikes i.e. eat before going to bed and before stepping out of it in the morning. Always have a high carbohydrate snack close by
Get enough rest and sleep
Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after each bout of vomiting. It will reduce nausea and decrease the risk of damage to your teeth
Sea bands put pressure on the inner wrist and reduce nausea

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