It’s normal to experience some nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. But what causes the queasiness? Is it something to be concerned about? Read on to learn more about why you might be feeling nauseous and how to cope.
Nausea is a common symptom during pregnancy, typically occurring during the first trimester. It can range from mild and temporary to severe and persistent. Depending on the severity, some women may experience just nausea while others may also vomit, leading to the term “morning sickness”.
Although the exact cause of nausea in pregnant women is still unknown, there are a few theories about why it occurs. It could be due to a combination of physical and hormonal changes in the body, such as the sudden rise of hormones like estrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). In addition, the expanding uterus could be pressing on the stomach, causing feelings of discomfort.
Many women find that certain smells or foods can trigger nausea. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals can help reduce symptoms. Additionally, try avoiding odors and certain food groups that seem to make you queasy. Consider keeping snacks on hand, like crackers or dry toast, if you feel like you need to eat something.
It’s also beneficial to get plenty of rest and take breaks during the day. Gentle exercise can help settle your stomach, but avoid strenuous activities if it makes you feel worse. If the nausea becomes too debilitating, talk to your doctor about medications that can help.
When it comes to dealing with nausea during pregnancy, everyone’s experience is different. Some women may not experience nausea at all while others may suffer from it throughout their pregnancy. Either way, rest assured that this symptom usually fades away as the pregnancy progresses and changes in the body slow down.