Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, commonly known as “morning sickness,” is a widely experienced condition. Medically termed nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), it affects a significant number of pregnant individuals. While often uncomfortable, NVP is generally considered a normal physiological adjustment during early pregnancy. Understanding NVP can help manage expectations during this period.
Commonality and Typical Timeline
Nausea and vomiting are very common in pregnancy, affecting approximately 70-80% of pregnant individuals. Despite its name, symptoms can occur at any time of day or night. They typically begin around the fifth or sixth week of pregnancy.
The intensity of NVP often peaks between weeks nine and ten. Following this peak, symptoms usually start to subside, with most individuals finding relief by weeks 12 to 16. This period marks the end of the first trimester or early second trimester. A smaller percentage of individuals may experience symptoms that extend longer, sometimes throughout the entire pregnancy.
Why Nausea and Vomiting Occur
The exact cause of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is not fully understood, but it is closely linked to rapid hormonal changes. A primary factor is the surge in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone produced by the placenta. hCG levels rise quickly during the first trimester and are often highest when NVP symptoms peak.
Estrogen, another hormone that increases significantly during pregnancy, also contributes to nausea and vomiting. These hormonal shifts can influence the gastrointestinal system, potentially leading to increased sensitivity to smells and changes in gastric emptying. Blood sugar fluctuations and an increased sense of smell may also play a role.
Strategies for Managing Symptoms
Managing nausea and vomiting often involves adjustments to diet and daily routines. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent an empty stomach, which sometimes worsens nausea. Bland, dry foods like crackers, toast, or rice are often easier to tolerate. Avoiding greasy, spicy, or fatty foods may also reduce discomfort, as these are harder to digest.
Hydration is important, especially if vomiting occurs. Sipping fluids throughout the day, rather than drinking large amounts at once, can be more manageable. Water, clear broths, or herbal teas like ginger or peppermint are often suggested. Some individuals find relief from carbonated beverages or water with a squeeze of citrus.
Lifestyle adjustments can also be beneficial. Getting adequate rest is important, as tiredness can intensify nausea. Identifying and avoiding specific smells or foods that trigger nausea can help reduce episodes.
Cold foods often have less strong odors and are more palatable than hot meals. Acupressure wristbands and ginger, available in various forms like candies or tea, are commonly used remedies. Taking prenatal vitamins with a snack or just before bed may also alleviate stomach upset.
Knowing When to Seek Help
While nausea and vomiting are common in pregnancy, certain symptoms indicate a need for medical evaluation. It is important to contact a healthcare provider if vomiting becomes severe, preventing the individual from keeping down food or liquids for 24 hours. This inability to retain fluids can lead to dehydration.
Signs of dehydration include feeling thirsty, tired, dizzy or lightheaded, producing very dark or little urine, or not urinating for more than eight hours. Significant weight loss, such as losing more than 5% of pre-pregnancy weight, also warrants medical attention. Other symptoms that should prompt a call to a healthcare provider include fainting, a fast heart rate, abdominal pain, or vomiting blood or brown material. These symptoms could indicate hyperemesis gravidarum, which may require medical treatment, sometimes including hospitalization for intravenous fluids.