Our doctors answer five common questions about morning sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most discussed and dreaded problems associated with pregnancy. Our doctors understand how this condition can affect your everyday life, so our doctors want to address some of your concerns.
Five questions you may have about morning sickness
Sometime after the ninth week, you may begin to experience the nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness. The symptoms usually end at the beginning of the second trimester, around week 14, but you may wrestle with this problem longer. Here are some questions patients ask about this common problem.
- Why do they call it morning sickness when I’m sick morning, noon and night?
Women often wake up in the morning feeling ill during early pregnancy, giving pregnancy nausea and vomiting the “morning sickness” name. However, many pregnant patients feel ill throughout the day and evening.
- What are the symptoms?
The most common symptoms are nausea and vomiting. Your morning sickness may be triggered by things like feeling overheated, certain smells or eating spicy food. You may also get sick for no obvious reason.
- What factors increase my risk of having morning sickness?
Anyone can develop this problem, but certain factors may make you more susceptible to this condition.
- Morning sickness during a previous pregnancy
- Pregnancy with multiples
- History of migraines, motion sickness or nausea and vomiting triggered by certain odors and foods
- Family history of morning sickness, especially severe sickness
- Carrying a female baby
- What can I do to ease my symptoms?
There are steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms.
- Keep crackers nearby to eat before getting up in the morning
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Avoid odors and foods that trigger symptoms
- Avoid large meals and eat small meals more often
- Try items that contain real ginger such as ginger candy or ginger tea
- Is there any medical treatment for severe symptoms?
For severe morning sickness, our doctors may recommend vitamin B6, along with doxylamine succinate, a medication used in over-the-counter sleep aids. In very severe cases, our physicians prescribe antiemetic medications to prevent vomiting.
Our ObGyns and staff are always ready to answer your questions
Always discuss morning sickness with your doctor. Our doctors can help you feel better and enjoy your pregnancy. Contact us for an appointment.
