Nausea can unexpectedly surface during the third trimester of pregnancy. While it might seem counterintuitive, experiencing nausea in the final months of pregnancy is common. This sensation, though less frequent than in the initial trimester, does not automatically signal a problem. It can be a typical part of the physiological adjustments occurring as pregnancy progresses.
Common Reasons for Nausea
Several bodily changes during the third trimester can contribute to nausea. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in progesterone and estrogen levels, influence the sensation. Progesterone, for instance, can relax the digestive system’s smooth muscles, slowing gastric emptying and allowing food to remain in the stomach longer. The expanding uterus also exerts pressure on the stomach and other digestive organs, leading to discomfort and queasiness.
Additionally, digestive processes tend to slow during pregnancy, resulting in food staying undigested in the stomach longer. This slower digestion, combined with physical pressure from the growing uterus, can cause nausea. Dietary factors, such as high-fat, spicy, or strongly scented foods, can also exacerbate nausea by irritating the digestive system. Increased sensitivity to certain smells, a common pregnancy symptom, can also trigger nausea.
Recognizing Concerning Symptoms
While third-trimester nausea is often normal, accompanying symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition requiring immediate medical attention. Persistent, severe vomiting that prevents keeping down food or fluids is a concerning sign. Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine, decreased urination, dry mouth, dry skin, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat, warrant prompt evaluation. Dehydration can also cause Braxton Hicks contractions, a sign of insufficient fluid intake.
Other red flags include severe upper right abdominal pain, which could signal liver issues. Sudden, excessive swelling in the face, hands, or feet can also be a symptom of conditions like preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure, and it can also present with persistent headaches, vision changes such as blurring or flashing lights, or pain just below the ribs. HELLP syndrome, a variant of preeclampsia, can manifest with worsening nausea and vomiting, upper right abdominal pain, headache, and blurry vision. If any of these severe symptoms appear, contact a healthcare provider or seek emergency medical care.
Managing Third Trimester Nausea
Several strategies can help alleviate mild to moderate third-trimester nausea. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can prevent the stomach from becoming too empty or too full, which helps reduce nausea. Opt for bland foods like crackers, toast, bananas, or rice, and avoid high-fat, spicy, or strong-smelling foods. Staying well-hydrated by sipping water or clear fluids throughout the day is beneficial.
Resting adequately helps manage nausea, as fatigue can intensify the sensation. Avoiding strong odors that trigger discomfort can also be helpful. Ginger, in forms like tea or gummies, is a natural remedy some individuals find provides relief. Placing pressure on the wrist using acupressure bands may also help reduce symptoms.
Understanding Nausea Throughout Pregnancy
Nausea is commonly associated with the first trimester, often called “morning sickness,” though it can occur at any time of day. This early pregnancy nausea is largely attributed to the rapid surge in hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen. For many, these symptoms typically subside by the end of the first trimester or early in the second.
The reappearance of nausea in the third trimester often stems from different causes than in early pregnancy. While hormonal shifts continue, the physical changes of a growing uterus pressing on internal organs become more significant. Slower digestion is also more pronounced in late pregnancy. The underlying reasons for nausea can vary across the gestational period.