Morning Sickness

Morning Sickness

Approximately one half and two-thirds of all pregnant women experience some form of morning sickness, whether mild or severe, during the first trimester. The most noticeable symptoms of morning sickness include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, depression and anxiety.
A very serious condition, known as Hyperemesis gravidarum (or severe morning sickness), can affect 1 out of every 1,000 pregnant women. Symptoms of severe morning sickness include dehydration due to repeated vomiting and weight loss. Usually hospitalization is required, with plenty of intravenous liquids and nutrition. Left untreated, severe complications could ensue, such as malnourishment of the fetus, excessive vital organ strain, heightened depression and anxiety, and electrolyte imbalances.

Pregnancy Morning Sickness

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 even experience nausea, vomiting, and most of the associated symptoms of morning sickness for the entire duration of their pregnancies. True to its name, morning sickness does occur mostly early on in the day, but it has also been known to occur at any moment during the day or night, often triggered by diet, stress, or combined with motion sickness.
If your morning sickness symptoms are severe, consult with your doctor or health care professional. 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.
 

7/16/2007 10:54:45 AM