Pregnancy Nausea, Nausea During Pregnancy, Pregnancy & Nausea

Nausea can begin in the very early stages of pregnancy and can range from just a feeling of sickness and giddiness to actual vomiting. This is usually referred to as 'morning sickness' but it does affect women differently, and some may only feel ill first thing in the morning, whilst others can suffer throughout the day.

Usually morning sickness eases after the first trimester is over as the body settles down, but some women may continue to suffer well into the pregnancy. Sometimes morning sickness can stop, but then return in the last few months of pregnancy and this is normally because the baby and uterus have got so big they are squashing the stomach and digestive system, making it difficult to eat and drink without experience indigestion and feelings of sickness.

The reasons for morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy are not really known, but it is thought to be caused by fluctuating blood fluid and blood sugar levels, as well as surges in pregnancy hormones. It is commonly believed that morning sickness is more prevalent in woman carrying multiply pregnancies such as twins and triplets, but this has never been scientifically proven.

The symptoms of morning sickness are varied and include dehydration, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and food/smell aversion. If you vomit a lot during the day then you need to take care that you do not become dehydrated as not only will this mean you have lost fluids, but vital minerals as well. In cases where pregnant woman cannot keep food or liquid down in sufficient quantities they may need medical attention, which usually involves a short stay in hospital so that fluids, nutrients and minerals can be replaced through a drip.

There are some ways you can avoid and ease the symptoms of morning sickness. Try not to get out of bed too quickly in the morning, and eat a dry cracker or sip a light herbal tea such as raspberry leaf or ginger before you get up. During the day avoid eating big meals, and help balance your blood sugar levels by eating little and often, at least every two to three hours (even if you are not actually hungry). Drink plenty of fluids and avoid consuming very sugary, fatty and heavy foods or alcohol and caffeine as these can make you feel queasy and are difficult to digest. Getting some fresh air can often help, and if you are going out and about carry some ginger biscuits with you and nibble them when you feel nauseous. When you are feeling bad make sure you lie down and rest, and avoid any sudden movements or heavy lifting. Eating a light snack such as yoghurt, toast or cereal before you go to bed can sometimes ease morning sickness, as well as keeping the door or window open to let fresh air circulate in your bedroom.

For those women that suffer from severe sickness during pregnancy (vomiting more than three times a day) it is best to consult your doctor, who will check you for dehydration and weight loss, and may in certain cases prescribe some anti-sickness tablets.

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