"Morning sickness" is the uneasiness experienced by the pregnant women in the early pregnancy period. This experience is a mix of nausea and vomiting. For some pregnant women, the symptoms are worse in the morning and ease up over the course of the day, but they can strike at any time and, for most women, last all day long. The intensity of symptoms can vary from woman to woman, too.
Overall, this condition affects about three-quarters of pregnant women during the first trimester. Nausea usually starts around 6 weeks of pregnancy, but it can begin as early as 4 weeks. It tends to get worse over the next month or so.
A small percentage of women have symptoms that persist continually (or nearly so) until delivery.
Morning Sickness- Factors:
The main factor behind this uncanny feeling is the rapid increase of the level of Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone rises rapidly during early pregnancy.
Other factors that are also responsible for morning sickness are:
- Heightened sense of smell
- Slowed digestion
- Acid reflux
If your symptoms are severe, consult your Obstetrician or Gynaecologist without any delay.
Tips to Combat with Morning Sickness:
- Stay hydrated
- Try to avoid oily junk food
- Have adequate sleep
- Take small meals instead of taking three big meals
- Try to avoid the smell that irritates you
- The main thing be open to all the unusual and enjoys the feeling of being pregnant
Supplements are available in the market to reduce symptoms of the morning sickness but it is advisable to always consult your Obstetrician or Gynaecologist before you start any medications.