How Long Does Morning Sickness Last

How Long Does Morning Sickness Last?

Most often morning sickness starts around the 4th week of pregnancy and continues until the 12th week. However, 1 in 5 women do experience morning sickness well into their second trimester. Unfortunately, a few women do even experience nausea, vomiting, and most of the associated symptoms of morning sickness for the entire duration of their pregnancies. Morning sickness usually begins early in the day, but symptoms can occur at any moment during the day or night.

If your morning sickness symptoms are severe, consult with your doctor or health care professional. You may have Hyperemesis gravidarum, a rare but serious form of morning sickness that requires hospitalization and intravenous liquids and nutrients. Remember that some morning sickness is normal, even beneficial. In fact, numerous studies show a link between moderate morning sickness and a reduced risk of miscarriage. If your symptoms are becoming unmanageable, talk with your doctor to see what morning sickness remedies are available.

Morning Sickness Remedies

Morning sickness remedies should not include any kind of prescription medications unless you’ve informed your doctor of your pregnancy and have been prescribed specific drugs that will not harm the fetus. Before you get out of bed in the morning, eat a few dry crackers to steady your stomach. During the day, drink plenty of water and eat foods high in carbohydrates and protein. Also, eat small meals on a regular basis, since an empty stomach has been known to trigger nausea. Up to 200mg of vitamin B6 supplements can combat symptoms of morning sickness, but be careful not to go over 200mg a day.

What you should avoid during bouts of morning sickness are fatty and spicy foods, or anything that you suspect will make you nauseous. When symptoms get too much, try a little ginger, which has been known to ease the symptoms in women prone to morning sickness. Remember to always seek professional medical care if your morning sickness is severe, or if you begin feeling depressed or anxious. Treatment options are available using drugs that won’t harm the baby.
 

7/16/2007 11:03:17 AM