As moms, I’m sure we have all experienced varying degrees of morning sickness throughout our pregnancies.
From queasy stomachs. Light-headedness to almost fainting and being stuck with our head resting on the toilet bowl as we vomit for the umpteenth time.
But did you know that, despite its name, morning sickness, can occur at any time of the day or night?
What is morning sickness?
Morning sickness is described as nausea and vomiting that occurs during pregnancy.
Now although most women will experience morning sickness during the first trimester, many women actually do experience morning sickness throughout their entire pregnancy.
In most cases, morning sickness will begin before the fetus is 9 weeks old and symptoms most often improve by the mid to late second trimester.
What causes morning sickness?
Morning sickness is believed to be caused by the hormonal changes a woman goes through throughout pregnancy as her body changes and grows the baby.
In very rare cases, morning sickness can be debilitating and a woman can experience it so severely that it causes dehydration and will result in the loss of more than 5% of her pre-pregnancy weight.
Hyperemesis
This is a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum. Hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to hospitalization for the pregnant woman as she will need IV fluids, medications, and in severe cases a feeding tube.
When should you worry about morning sickness?
Morning sickness is normal and if you are experiencing nausea or queasiness, try to lie down, relax, drink some warm ginger tea or eat small snacks of dry salty biscuits throughout the day until it passes.
However if you are experiencing any of the following please contact your health care provider :
-If your symptoms are severe and preventing you from functioning normally throughout the day
-If you pass only small amounts or any dark urine
-If you can’t keep liquids down
Pregnancy is a wonderful journey full of changes and growth, whilst morning sickness is one symptom it can be controlled, often doesn’t last long into your pregnancy, and is a gentle reminder of the beautiful life you are growing.
