Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

Morning sickness (also known as nausea and vomiting in pregnancy) is a typical symptom of early pregnancy. Morning sickness symptoms are more likely in the morning, but they can occur at any time of the day (thus the term).

Up to 80% of women experience nausea or vomiting during pregnancy, with symptoms often beginning at 5 to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms normally subside by 20 weeks of pregnancy in the majority of cases. However, some women (between 2.5 and 10%) may suffer symptoms after this time.

Morning sickness can have a big influence on your life, such as hurting your ability to work or keep up with your typical routine.

Morning sickness is treated with supportive measures to relieve nausea and vomiting, as well as to rectify any dehydration (or other electrolyte abnormalities) that may occur.

General Tips for managing vomiting and nausea during pregnancy

• Identify and avoid any known triggers (for example, foods or odors that cause symptoms).
• Brush your teeth as soon as possible after eating.
• Consume little amounts of food regularly (avoid having an empty stomach)
• Slowly get out of bed.
• When you're feeling less nauseated, try to eat.
• Rest as much as you can (fatigue can make your nausea worse)
• Foods that are greasy and hot should be avoided.
• Keep some dry crackers and water by your bedside and eat them first thing in the morning.
• Peppermint or ginger herbal teas are good choices.
• Make sure you're getting enough fluids (and choosing the right kind!) (For more information, check below)

Treatment for morning sickness-related dehydration

Mild to moderate dehydration can be dangerous to both the mother and the fetus' health. There are two main reasons why you might be dehydrated as a result of morning sickness:

• Vomiting depletes liquids and electrolytes (i.e. a bodily fluid)
• You may feel sick and consume less food or liquid than usual.

Dehydration's most common signs and symptoms

• Thirst increases
• Dizziness
• Decreased urine output
• Dry skin
• Lethargy / Fatigue
• Headaches
• Sticky or dry mouth

Here are some suggestions for staying hydrated and dealing with dehydration caused by morning sickness

• Be aware of dehydration's signs and symptoms, and keep an eye out for them.
• Choose a fluid that will appropriately hydrate you, such as water or an oral rehydration solution (Hydralyte). (Note: Oral rehydration solutions have the right amount of sugar and salt to promote quick and effective hydration.) Sugary liquids like soda and sports drinks don't have the right sugar-to-salt ratio for fast hydration).
• Drink little amounts of fluid regularly (sip small amounts regularly)
• Drink at least two liters of water a day.
• Morning sickness is easier managed by cold or frozen drinks (Tip: Hydralyte oral electrolyte solution is a delicious ready-to-drink format that may be kept in the freezer for 1 month after opening!)

Cautions

Pregnancy nausea and vomiting might become more significant in rare circumstances. Hyperemesis gravidarum is the medical term for this condition.

During pregnancy, oral rehydration solutions are safe to use. However, a woman must discuss her morning sickness symptoms with her midwife or physician as soon as possible. Visit https://bump2babyscans.co.uk for more details.