Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, also known as “morning sickness”, is a common condition experienced by pregnant women. Although it is called morning sickness, symptoms can occur at any time of day and generally subside by the second trimester of pregnancy. While most women experience mild nausea or occasional vomiting, severe and prolonged symptoms may require medical attention. Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are thought to be caused by changes in hormone levels, such as the elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) early in pregnancy. These hormonal fluctuations affect digestion and contribute to nausea and vomiting.
Management: Lifestyle modifications such as consuming small, frequent meals; eating a bland, low-fat, and low-sugar diet; drinking fluids between meals and not during meals; avoiding triggers like strong smells, hot foods, and lying down soon after meals can help alleviate mild nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Over-the-counter treatments such as vitamin B6, doxylamine, or diphenhydramine are considered safe for most women experiencing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider. In cases of severe and prolonged symptoms, prescription medications and monitoring by healthcare professionals may be required for both the mother’s and the baby’s wellbeing. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using medications while pregnant.