Morning Sickness in Pregnancy - Pregnancy Health Tips by Dr. Sahithi Balmuri, the best gynecologist, Hyderabad

Meaning of Morning Sickness

Morning Sickness in pregnancy is solely nausea during pregnancy which is common for women in their first trimester. In simple terms, it feels like throwing up or having a vomiting sensation. It can occur either during the day or night, irrespective of its name "Morning Sickness." The major cause of nausea in Pregnancy is believed to be due to high hormonal changes, in particular human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone. Some women may have an extreme form of morning sickness which is known as hyperemesis gravidarum which occurs between the 4th and 6th week of pregnancy and can reach its peaks around week no.9 to 13. In contrast, some women don't have any sensation of nausea.

How to recognize it?

• Odor Sensitivity:

  Most pregnant ladies can develop nausea just after smelling certain odors. While few have heightened sensitivity to odor which triggers morning sickness.

• Motion sickness:

  Nauseated feeling with or without vomiting where one feels a variegated sign of senses as if one goes on a rollercoaster ride. As an example, eyes are focused on one thing, inner ears listen to something else and muscles get a sense of out-of-world vibrations.

• Keep an eye on what you eat:

  Pregnant women tend to feel like throwing up after consumption of spicy foods.

• Vulnerability to heat:

  A rise in temperature in your environment can lead to nausea.

Causes for Nausea in Pregnancy

• Hormonal Changes:

  As mentioned earlier, the root cause of morning sickness in pregnancy is changes in hormonal levels mainly hCG and progesterone. Rapid changes in hormones lead to nausea.

• Staying on an empty stomach:

  Any digestive issues or staying on an empty stomach can make you feel nauseated.

• Medical Condition:

  A medical condition that is irrelevant to pregnancy like gallbladder disease or thyroid issue can make one feel nausea in pregnancy.

Factors to be Cautious

• Health Conditions Prior pregnancy:

  Motion sickness, sensitivity to odors, taking birth control pills, and migraines before pregnancy can lead to morning sickness.

• Previous Pregnancy:

  Having nausea in a previous pregnancy can lead to morning sickness.

• Is there a chance of multiples?:

  The hCG pregnancy hormone will increase to a higher level if you are going to give birth to twins or multiples.

• Hyperemesis Gravidarum:

  This condition may be caused when the baby is a girl or if it is being run in the family tree, and also due to prior pregnancy.

What happens during morning sickness?

In most of the cases, morning sickness is not a serious issue that can impair fetal development or growth. Mild morning sickness results in minimal health risks.

• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Dehydration
• Malnourishment

Pregnancy health tips

One cannot escape from morning sickness but here are a few pregnancy health tips by Dr.Sahithi Balmuri that can be followed to reduce morning sickness.

• Minimal consumption of food at frequent intervals:

  During nausea, one may lose appetite, however empty stomach can affect more. Eating small amounts of food at frequent intervals can help you feel relieved.

• Stay Hydrated:

  Consumption of fluids and staying hydrated the whole day can prevent you from dehydration.

• Protein intake:

  Long-lasting relief can be achieved by including lots of protein in your diet.

• Distance yourself from triggers:

  Spicy food, some odors trigger vomiting sensation, it is better to stay away from these triggers.

• Take proper rest:

  Tiredness might lead to weakness. Having a sound sleep can relieve you a lot better.

• Ginger:

  A natural ingredient with anti-nausea properties will help you go through morning sickness.

• Multivitamin Supplements:

  Consult a doctor before you take these supplements. Vitamin B6 can relieve you from nausea. Multivitamins must not be consumed on an empty stomach.

• Time to be outdoors:

  Going outside and having fresh air can give you relief from nausea.

• Acupressure and essential oils:

  Acupressure wrist bands and acupuncture with caliper-like thin needles are placed on the skin at specific points to relieve nausea and also few essential oils like lavender can heal up the sensation.

• Hyperemesis gravidarum:

  Admitting in the hospital might become essential. Intravenous (IV) fluids are injected for rehydration. Anti-nausea and corticosteroid medications are provided.

Suggested Meals

• Cold foods like raw veggies, sandwiches, and salads to avoid listeria.
• Bland meals: chicken soup, broth, simple baked potatoes, rice, ice pops.
• Fruits and vegetables
• Lemons
• Dry toast or cereal before you go to bed.

Medical Emergency is required

Consult a doctor immediately when you feel lethargic or dizzy, have flu, multiple vomiting a day, or excessive loss of weight. If you experience morning sickness even after neither three to four months nor gaining any weight seek medical help. Dr. Balmuri is open to consultations and will be providing the required advice and care.

Best Gynecologist in Hyderabad

For those looking for a gynecologist, Dr. Sahithi Balmuri is the best gynecologist in Hyderabad and has exceptional expertise along with compassionate care in the field of gynecology. Women's health is our priority and is evident through a personalized approach to patient care with the medical advancements. Most of the complex cases are handled well and a good reputation is established as a comprehensive service provider. Dr. Sahithi Balmuri, the best gynecology hospital, offers a range of specialized treatments that cater to various gynecological needs.

Morning sickness might seem challenging but is manageable. By following these tips from Dr. Sahithi Balmuri is available to give professional advice when in need, one can go through a journey of healthier pregnancy.