Morning Sickness

Expectant mothers often experience nausea and vomiting, particularly during the first trimester. This is often referred to as morning sickness. However, it is not limited to the morning and can occur anytime. This is caused by the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.

Many people are familiar with nausea, an uncomfortable sickness without being ill. Although it can be unpleasant, it is typically nothing to be concerned about.

If your nausea or vomiting is particularly severe, it may be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, otherwise known as severe morning sickness. Speaking to a doctor about this condition is essential to ensure your health and safety. We will provide further information on hyperemesis gravidarum in the following section.

Each individual's experience with morning sickness varies; some may experience it early on in their pregnancy, while others may not experience it until later. Additionally, morning sickness duration can vary from person to person.

During the initial three months of pregnancy, nausea and vomiting are common symptoms that can start as early as the first month after a missed period. Although these symptoms can last weeks, they tend to subside after the third month.

If you feel that your nausea and vomiting are particularly intense or have any concerns, it is essential to consult a doctor for reassurance. Fortunately, your pregnancy and your baby's health are generally not affected by the condition.

If you have just found out you are pregnant, you may wonder what morning sickness is like. The symptoms you will have can vary from a mild feeling of nausea to actually being sick. You may

• Have a fast heart rate
  
  
• Be dehydrated due to the fluids you are losing
  
  
• Be sick 3 or 4 times a day
  
  
• Feel confused
  
  
• Feel nauseous all the time
  
  
• Feel very tired
  
  
• Women who lose weight during pregnancy or fail to gain weight during pregnancy
  
  
• Have headaches

Consult a doctor for more advice if you have any of the abovementioned symptoms.

Although morning sickness is a common pregnancy symptom, a doctor may suggest particular lifestyle and diet modifications, or in more severe cases, medication, to alleviate the symptoms.

Severe nausea and vomiting require medical attention. In the event of diagnosis of a severe condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), specialised treatment, which may involve hospitalisation, will be required.

If you have been experiencing this condition for a while during your pregnancy, our doctors can advise on what may be causing it.

Even though morning sickness is a normal symptom of pregnancy, there are some steps you can take to minimise its effects.

• Drinking fluids regularly, little by little, is important to avoid vomiting.
  
  
• Make sure you get enough sleep
  
  
• Eat small, frequent meals rather than a few large ones
  
  
• Vitamin B6 supplements may help with nausea
  
  
• Some people have found relief from chronic pain through complementary therapies, such as acupressure.
  
  
• Some women have reported relief from nausea by eating or drinking ginger-flavoured foods or drinks.

Our doctors are accessible seven days a week, so you can arrange to see one for advice, diagnosis, and treatment regarding your morning sickness at a convenient time. They can refer you to a specialist if further investigation or treatment is required.

Connect with one of our doctors at Mobi Doctor with the click of a button and receive the care you require.