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What is morning sickness?
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, commonly referred to as morning sickness, is common during the initial stages of pregnancy. Regardless of its name, it can affect you during the day or night or all day long.
Morning sickness can be uncomfortable and may impact your daily activities. However, it typically subsides by the 14th week of your pregnancy and does not pose a risk to your baby's well-being.
In some instances, it can persist for several weeks or even months; for a few women, it continues throughout the pregnancy.
How to treat morning sickness?
Morning sickness can vary from one pregnancy to another, and no universal treatment works for everyone. However, you can adjust your diet and daily routine to alleviate the symptoms.
Following are some self-help measures to alleviate morning sickness.
- Get ample rest, as fatigue can worsen nausea.
- Avoid foods or odours that trigger nausea.
- Opt for small, frequent meals consisting of plain, high-carbohydrate, low-fat foods, such as bread, rice, crackers, and pasta.
- Stay well-hydrated.
- If the aroma of hot meals is bothersome, choose cold foods instead.
- Include foods or drinks containing ginger. However, check with your doctor if it is permissible.
If the above measures do not provide relief or you experience more severe symptoms, it is advisable to consult your doctor, who may suggest medication such as antiemetics to prevent vomiting or other appropriate treatments.
What is the difference between morning sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum?
The most severe form of pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting is known as hyperemesis gravidarum, and it affects up to 3% of pregnancies.
Hyperemesis gravidarum can be a serious condition, potentially leading to dehydration and malnourishment if you are unable to maintain proper fluid intake and nutrition. In some cases, specialised treatment, including hospitalisation, may be necessary.
What are the risk factors for morning sickness?
Various risk factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing morning sickness. It is believed that hormonal changes during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy play a significant role.
You may be at a higher risk if:
- You are expecting twins or multiple babies.
- You had severe morning sickness during a previous pregnancy.
- You tend to experience motion sickness.
- You have a history of migraine headaches.
- You have a family history of morning sickness.
- This is your first pregnancy.
- You have an elevated body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
- You are under significant stress.
When to visit a doctor for morning sickness?
If you experience the following symptoms, visit the doctor immediately:
- Severe weakness, dizziness, or fainting when standing up.
- Inability to keep food or fluids down for 24 hours.
- Very dark-coloured urine or not urinating for more than 8 hours.
- Abdominal pain.
- A high temperature.
- Vomiting blood.
- Significant weight loss.
Book an appointment at Pantai Hospitals
Remember that morning sickness is a common part of pregnancy. Regular prenatal appointments and open communication with your doctor are crucial for monitoring your health and addressing any concerns throughout pregnancy.
A dedicated and expert team of obstetricians and gynaecologists at Pantai Hospital is available for consultation to provide patients with the best care and assistance. Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have any concerns or questions about morning sickness in pregnancy.
Pantai Hospital has been accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
