Morning sickness may be one of the first signs of pregnancy. It is nausea  that occur during pregnancy. It can be, but not always accompanied by vomiting. Even though the name suggest it happens in the morning, it can really occur at anytime during the day. Morning sickness is common during the first trimester although in some women, this condition can last throughout the whole pregnancy. This condition is not harmful to your baby. Many health care providers think morning sickness is a good sign because it means the placenta is developing well.The most severe  form of morning sickness is known as Hyperemesis gravidarum . Victims of this severe  form experience excessive vomiting and are unable to keep food down. This can harm the baby if left untreated. Contact your doctor immediately for treatment.
 

 

What are the causes of morning sickness ?

 
The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown. However elevated hormonal levels during pregnancy could be responsible for it. Rarely  medical conditions such as liver disease and thyroid problems can result in severe and persistent nausea and vomiting.

Who is at risk ?

 
Any  pregnant woman can get morning sickness however you are at high risk of getting if you fall into the following category

• carrying multiples
• has nausea and vomiting in previous pregnancy
• have a history  of motion sickness
• if you are carrying a girl
• have a history of migraine headaches
• have a history of nausea and vomiting as a side effect of birth control
• if you have  family history of morning sickness

What  is the effect of morning sickness on my baby ?

 
Mild to moderate morning sickness will have no effect on your baby so far as you stay well hydrated. Be sure to take your prenatal vitamins to make up for the nutrients lost through vomiting.

In severe cases, where you cannot keep anything down, you may be hospitalized and given fluids through IV.

How can I deal with morning sickness ?

 
These steps can help you alleviate your symptoms.

• eat small meals frequently instead of 3 large meals
• eat crackers or dry toast 15 minutes before getting out of bed
• don’t dink fluid with meals. You can drink fluids 30 minutes before and after meals
• get enough rest and nap during the day if possible
• don’t  lie down after eating as this can slow digestion
• avoid foods and smells that trigger nausea
• get fresh air
• sniff  lemons or ginger, drink lemonade, or eat watermelon to relieve nausea
• don’t skip meals
• exercise
• take prenatal vitamins with food or just before bed. You can ask your health care provider for prenatal vitamin with low dose of iron for the first trimester. Iron makes you nauseated.

 
You may not need treatment for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. However is they persist, your health care provider may prescribe B-6 supplements, antihistamines and possibly anti-nausea medications.

Contact your doctor if :

• vomiting is accompanied by pain and fever
• you cannot  keep anything down
• nausea and vomiting persist into the second trimester