Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting, commonly known as "morning sickness" (although it can be experienced at any time), are common symptoms in early pregnancy and usually subside by the end of the first trimester (around 12-14 weeks). These symptoms are caused by a combination of factors, including hormonal changes.

During pregnancy, high levels of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) are present in the body, which may prompt vomiting through effects on both the brain and the digestive system. Additionally, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones can contribute to nausea and other digestive issues like heartburn, which typically occur later in pregnancy.

To alleviate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, the following steps can be taken:

1.  Eat small, frequent meals: Even though there may be an aversion to food during episodes of nausea and vomiting, it is recommended to eat small meals every two to three hours. Breakfast, particularly something small immediately upon waking up, is crucial.
2. Choose easy-to-digest foods: Complex carbohydrates that stabilize blood sugar levels and are easy to digest are recommended. Examples include porridge, toast, rice, breakfast cereals, bananas, crackers, and sweet potatoes. Consuming easy-to-digest proteins like white cheese, turkey, and chicken, as well as fresh vegetables such as carrots and cucumbers, can also help.
3. Stay hydrated: Drink at least 1.5 liters of fluids per day, with an emphasis on water. Occasionally having a small amount of sugary drink may provide some relief. It is best to avoid caffeine by opting for mint, chamomile, or ginger tea. Ginger root can be smelled or used in water, tea, or concentrated tablet form.
4. Consider supplements: Taking a vitamin B6 supplement and ensuring adequate intake of folic acid is recommended. If supplements are causing nausea and vomiting, it may be helpful to try a different brand or take them at a different time of day.
5. Explore aromatherapy: Many women find relief from nausea by smelling spicy or sour scents. Essential oils like ginger, mint, eucalyptus, orange, lemon, and mandarin can be beneficial

It is important to avoid certain triggers and make lifestyle adjustments to manage nausea and vomiting:

1. Avoid high-fat, processed, and fried foods, as well as foods high in sugar.
2. Quit smoking and avoid exposure to strong scents, such as perfumes.
3. Reduce or avoid cruciferous vegetables like kohlrabi, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli, as well as acidic and spicy vegetables like tomatoes, eggplants, potatoes, and peppers.
4. Seek cooler environments and ensure proper ventilation, as hot places can exacerbate nausea.
5. If taking a prenatal multivitamin, consider switching brands or changing the time of day it is taken to alleviate symptoms.

Severe cases of nausea and vomiting may require medical attention. If continuous vomiting leads to dehydration, inability to consume fluids for more than a day, significant weight loss, weakness, or anemia, it is important to seek immediate medical help. Safe medications like Permin, Diclectin, or Zofran can be prescribed to manage severe symptoms.

While vomiting in pregnancy poses some risks, the fetus takes what it needs from the mother's body. However, severe vomiting can lead to dehydration, which may cause early labor or complications related to imbalances in the mother's body. By the second trimester of pregnancy, you can expect either  the complete resolution of these symptoms or at least a reduction, bringing some measure of relief.