Morning Sickness

Morning Sickness: What All Women Should Know

Being pregnant is an incredible and exciting time, but it can also be a challenge for many expecting mothers. Many women are not prepared for the fatigue, queasiness, and discomfort that often accompanies the journey. One of the most common issues faced by pregnant women is morning sickness. Here’s what women should know about morning sickness and what they can do to manage it.

What Causes Morning Sickness?

While it is commonly called “morning sickness,” expecting mothers may experience it at any time of day. It is usually due to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. An increase in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can cause nausea and vomiting, especially during the first trimester. The severity of morning sickness can vary greatly from woman to woman. While some women will only experience occasional bouts of nausea, others may experience severe vomiting that deprives them of important nutrients.

How Can Morning Sickness Be Managed?

Luckily, there are several ways to manage morning sickness so that expecting mothers can feel more comfortable. Here are some tips for managing morning sickness:

• Eat small, frequent meals. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help alleviate nausea. Try eating something like crackers or plain toast a few minutes before getting out of bed.
• Drink fluids often. Keeping hydrated can help reduce nausea. Avoid very cold or hot drinks and also caffeine.
• Get plenty of rest. Fatigue can aggravate morning sickness, so try to get more rest and take short naps if needed.
• Try aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can help reduce nausea and calm an upset stomach. Some scents that can make you feel better include citrus, peppermint, and ginger.
• Ask your doctor for medication. If morning sickness is severe and interferes with daily life, there are medications available that can help. However, it’s important to check with your doctor to make sure any medication is safe to take during pregnancy.

Although morning sickness can be difficult to handle, there are ways to manage it. Remember to talk to your doctor if the nausea is severe, as it may be an indicator of more serious medical issues.