Olukayode Akinlaja, MDQ: Is morning sickness something all women experience?
A: Most women experience morning sickness during the first three to four months of pregnancy, and most cases are mild – causing no harm. This results in many women not gaining any weight; some may even lose a little weight during their first trimester.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy probably contribute to morning sickness, but the exact cause is unknown. What we do know is that emotional stress, certain smells and some foods can worsen the nausea associated with morning sickness.
Taking prenatal vitamins at conception and during the start of pregnancy may reduce the severity of symptoms. It is also recommended that women experiencing nausea or vomiting eat smaller but more-frequent meals of bland foods such as white rice, applesauce or toast, and avoid rich, spicy or fatty food. Eating crackers before getting up in the morning or eating a light snack before bedtime may also reduce symptoms.
Drinking more fluids is also helpful. Small sips throughout the day are better than a lot at one time. Supplements that may help include ginger (teas, candy or soda) and vitamin B6. If you are still experiencing symptoms, speak to your doctor about safe and effective medications that may be available to take during pregnancy.
– Olukayode Akinlaja, MD, UT Erlanger Women’s Health Specialists; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
Submit your health-related questions for a medical doctor to lwilson@timesfreepress.com.