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Morning
Sickness
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, whereas the muscle tissue of the digestive tract starts to
relax. This creates acid in the stomach, enhances your sense of smell and
makes digestion sluggish. A woman whose command center is extremely sensitive
is likely to suffer severe symptoms. Besides this, stress and fatigue also
play their part in contributing to 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 those that you've had, do 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 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.
I keep throwing up,
how will my baby get nourished
Morning sickness, fortunately, doesn't
interfere with the nutrition that your baby receives. The baby lives off
your energy and it is normally the mother who suffers. Therefore, it is
important for you to eat the right foods and get plenty of rest.
How can my symptoms
be alleviated
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Carbohydrates and protein 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.
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If you cannot manage to eat or drink,
you could ask your doctor for an antenatal vitamin supplement.
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Let your eyes, nose and tongue guide
you in selecting correct food. Avoid the sight and smell of foods that
make you queasy.
-
Avoid smoke and smokers.
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Eat smaller amounts at regular intervals.
Low blood sugar is caused by long gaps between meals. It can also 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 on hand.
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Get enough sleep and relaxation.
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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.
Why am I salivating
so much
Ptyalism or excessive saliva is a
common symptom of pregnancy. It is more common in women suffering from
morning sickness and disappears after a few months. Though unpleasant,
it is completely harmless.
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