Feeling ill during pregnancy

Morning Sickness

www.your-baby.com.au

Approximately half to two thirds of all pregnant women will experience morning sickness to some degree, particularly in the first trimester. Morning sickness can happen at any time of the day or night but is most evident early in the mornings. In most cases it is a minor irritant and will quickly disappear. Some studies have shown that mild to moderate sickness is a sign of a 'good' pregnancy, with less risk of miscarriage.

There has been a lot of research to find the actual cause of morning sickness without any success. However, it is thought that the causes could be due to hormonal changes, fluctuations in blood pressure and the enormous physical and chemical changes that happen with pregnancy.

In most cases morning sickness will start around the 4th to 6th week of pregnancy and disappear by the 12th to 17th week. The degree of morning sickness can vary from feeling slightly nauseated to severe vomiting that includes weight loss and dehydration. Some women will experience morning sickness into their second trimester and a few even experience nausea and vomiting throughout their entire pregnancy. Severe morning sickness affects only about one in 1000 women, this is a condition called Hyperemesis Gravidarum and hospitalisation would be required to prevent dehydration and weight loss which could prevent the baby from normal growth.

In mild to moderate cases of morning sickness there are no adverse effects on the baby as it is safely cushioned inside the sac of amniotic fluid.

Here are a few suggestions to try and manage your morning sickness.

Place a few dry crackers on your bedside table at night and eat them before getting out of bed in the morning.
Eat small meals regularly so that there is always something lining your stomach.
Avoid fatty and spicy foods.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Ginger has been known to ease symptoms.
Wear loose clothing that will not constrict your abdomen.

If you are at all concerned about your morning sickness you should seek advice from your doctor.

Content courtesy of Margaret at "Your Baby"
www.your-baby.com.au