Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

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Pregnancy hormones can impact the digestive system, causing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Progesterone, which promotes the relaxation of smooth or involuntary muscles, often leads to a slower digestion process in the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. This slowed and relaxed digestive action contributes to many discomforts and weird feelings in the stomach in early pregnancy. Managing these symptoms can be difficult. However, understanding their causes and discovering effective coping strategies can make this part of pregnancy much easier to handle.

What are the two most common gastrointestinal problems in early pregnancy?

Nausea and vomiting are the two most well-known gastrointestinal symptoms of pregnancy. It is commonly referred to as ‘morning sickness’ but it can occur at the time of day or night. This type of nausea and vomiting typically begins around the sixth week of pregnancy and can last until the end of the first trimester, although some women may experience it for a longer duration. About 70% of all pregnant women experience morning sickness or weird feeling in stomach in early pregnancy.

What causes nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy?

The cause of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy isn’t entirely known, but it is believed to be a mix of physical and chemical changes. The increase in hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen in pregnancy plays a significant role. Elevated hCG levels, produced by the developing placenta, are closely linked to these symptoms. Additionally, the rise in estrogen can heighten sensitivity to smells, further contributing to nausea. Physical changes, such as a more sensitive digestive system and fluctuating blood sugar levels, can also cause nausea and vomiting.

Also Read: Missed period & other Early Pregnancy Signs

What are effective strategies and tips for managing nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy?

Eat small, frequent meals: Instead of three large meals a day, try eating smaller, more frequent meals. This can help keep your stomach from becoming empty, which can trigger nausea.

Choose foods carefully: Avoid foods with strong smells such as garlic, onions, eggs, certain fish, and greasy items. Opt for simple meals which are high in protein, low in fat and easy to digest.
Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated with small sips of water throughout the day is one of the best ways to stop morning sickness.
Try ginger: Ginger help relieve morning sickness for some people. Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties that can help soothe your stomach. You can consume it in various forms, such as ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger candies.
Rest and relax: Get adequate sleep and rest. Follow stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and light exercise to reduce nausea triggers.

What are some other gastrointestinal symptoms in early pregnancy?

In addition to nausea and vomiting, early pregnancy can cause other gastrointestinal symptoms:

Bloating – Bloating is a common sign of early pregnancy and often feels similar to pre-menstrual bloating. Hormonal changes, especially increased progesterone, cause the digestive system to slow down, leading to gas buildup and that uncomfortable bloated feeling.
Heartburn – Experiencing heartburn can be one of the early signs of pregnancy, sometimes even before you realize you are expecting. This uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest or throat is caused by hormonal changes. Try eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or acidic foods.
Cramping: Cramping pain can include mild to moderate abdominal discomfort, similar to menstrual cramps. It can be felt across the entire lower abdomen, pelvic and low back area.
Constipation: Constipation is caused by hormonal changes that slow down the digestive system. Increased progesterone levels relax the muscles in the intestines, leading to slower movement of food. Drink plenty of water, and stay active.

When should you see a doctor in early pregnancy?

If you experience unusual symptoms like severe weight loss or dehydration in early pregnancy, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can address concerns and provide appropriate care to support a healthy pregnancy.

Severe Nausea and Vomiting: If you are unable to keep any food or liquids down, you may have hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of morning sickness that requires medical treatment. Consult a doctor.
Dehydration: Signs of dehydration include dark urine, dizziness, and dry mouth. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention.
Significant weight loss: Persistent nausea and vomiting can lead to weight loss and dehydration. It is important to seek medical advice promptly to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
Severe Abdominal Pain: If you experience severe abdominal pain along with nausea and vomiting, seek medical attention immediately as this could indicate a more serious condition.
Fever and chills: Fever and chills in early pregnancy required immediate medical attention. These symptoms could indicate some underlying infection and requires doctor’s advice to reduce potential risks during pregnancy.
Significant Bleeding: Any vaginal bleeding that is heavy or accompanied by cramping.