Nausea During Pregnancy

Feeling sick or nauseated is quite common during pregnancy. The degree of nausea and vomiting varies in each woman. In most cases, the feeling of nausea stops after first 3 months but for some, it is a problem till 4 - 5 months into pregnancy. It is typically a sign of morning sickness. Some may throw up in the morning but in case of others, the morning sickness and nausea can last throughout the day. Mentioned below are some causes and ways to avoid nausea during pregnancy.

What Causes Nausea During Pregnancy?

Though the actual causes of nausea during pregnancy are not clear, it is believed to be mainly due to the hormonal changes that the body undergoes during pregnancy. The hormonal changes taking place in the body may lead to this feeling of sickness. Similarly, imbalance in blood sugar levels may also contribute to this. During the initial three months of pregnancy, there is a rise in hormone levels. The hormone levels stop increasing after the first three months and nausea stops for most women. As mentioned above, this may not be the case in others, who suffer from nausea throughout the nine months of pregnancy. The positive side of nausea is that, it is an indication that the to-be-mom's body produces adequate amount of hormones. But, on the minus side, there is a never-ending, completely irritating, uneasy, inconvenient and bad nausea during pregnancy.

How to Avoid Nausea During Pregnancy?

• While waking up in the morning, don't rush. Be seated on the bed for a few minutes, and get out of your bed slowly. Movements often make nausea worse. Have a little light snack soon.
• Don't starve yourself during pregnancy. Have small meals at regular intervals. It is good to have at least five small meals during the day, even if you are not hungry. Also, eat foods that smell and taste good to you, and the ones which you can easily digest. You must have a proper diet for healthy pregnancy.
• You can keep eating healthy snacks like nuts and peanut butter which are high in proteins.
• Have fluids like water and juices frequently during the day. Intake of at least 10 - 12 glasses of water is a must, but avoid fatty drinks like milk, coffee and tea, as they are hard to digest.
• Similarly, avoid intake of spicy or fatty food items and alcohol.
• Keep your room well ventilated so that you have enough fresh air.
• If your sleep is disturbed at night, you can get up and have a light snack. So, always keep some snacks beside your bed before sleeping.
• Try to keep yourself calm and away from stress and anxiety. Don't read or watch something that might lead to excitement or stress. If you are feeling low or worried, share your feelings with your parents, spouse or friends. Remember, you need to have a good mental health in pregnancy.
• Don't brush your teeth as soon as you finish eating something as this may lead to nausea.
• Take rest and do light pregnancy exercises like going for a walk everyday.

Mild vomiting and nausea during pregnancy is common. But, you should consult your doctor about nausea during pregnancy, if it becomes severe; like if you vomit more than 3 - 4 times a day or shortly after intake of any food or drink. If your vomit contains blood, you must immediately contact the doctor. You can have some medicine prescribed by your doctor to relieve nausea; don't take medicines without doctor's recommendation. Be calm and take the required care to go through the pregnancy days without any tensions and worries.