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Most women experience nausea during the first trimester of pregnancy. These states can vary from case to case in terms of their timing and intensity. Find out with Barza why nausea occurs in pregnancy and when you may experience it acutely!
Although the term morning sickness suggests that it occurs in the morning, it can actually occur at any time or persist throughout the day. Depending on the individual body, nausea may be more pronounced in the early morning or late evening. The idea is not to worry and accept them as part of the whole suite of transformations that every mother-to-be experiences.
Causes of morning sickness
If you are pregnant, it is essential to know that nausea is considered a normal and temporary symptom of pregnancy. According to specialists, there are several factors that can contribute to nausea during pregnancy. Here are some explanations for the states you are going through or about to go through!
Hormonal changes during pregnancy
High levels of the hormones hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), oestrogen and progesterone, which occur during pregnancy, can affect the digestive system and stimulate nausea.
Increased sensitivity to odours
During pregnancy, women may develop an increased sensitivity to certain odours, (even those preferred prior to pregnancy). So smells can trigger nausea or vomiting during pregnancy.
Fluctuations in blood sugar levels
Low blood sugar can cause nausea. During pregnancy, a woman’s metabolism changes and her body adjusts its insulin production.
Stress and fatigue
Pregnancy itself is a time of major changes in the body, and stress and fatigue can affect the digestive system and amplify symptoms of nausea.
Under what conditions can you experience acute nausea during pregnancy
Morning sickness usually starts around the sixth week and can peak around the ninth or tenth week. For many women, they may continue to be present in the following weeks.
In general, symptoms of nausea begin to improve gradually after the first three months of pregnancy. But here are the conditions under which you are more likely to experience this uncomfortable symptom:
- you have a multiple pregnancy;
- you’ve experienced these problems in a previous pregnancy;
- you have had episodes of nausea and dizziness in the past, caused by taking contraceptives;
- you have a genetic predisposition to nausea and dizziness during pregnancy;
- you’re gonna be a mommy to a baby girl.
Several studies over the years have revealed that women who experience acute episodes of nausea and dizziness are up to 50% more likely to give birth to a baby girl.
When nausea and vomiting become a cause for concern
Morning sickness can indeed be unpleasant, but there are steps you can take to reduce or avoid it during pregnancy.
If nausea is severe, persistent and significantly impacts your ability to consume food and fluids or if it causes dehydration, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor. It will be able to give you options for managing your nausea, thus managing to rule out other possible conditions.
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Remember that every woman is different and it may take some patience, trial and error, and adjustments to get this right. Don’t stress! Surely you will find the most effective and comfortable ways to enjoy your pregnancy in the absence of these unpleasant manifestations.
