That Gagging Feeling

Are you often hit by waves of nausea? You’ve been struck by morning sickness. Some women compare it to seasickness; others say it’s like the worst hangover they’ve ever had. 

Morning sickness affects three in four pregnant women. It usually starts in the first trimester and can strike at any time of the day or night. It is often made worse by food and cooking smells due to oestrogen, which causes a particular sensitivity to odours.

What causes morning sickness?

It could be triggered by an increase in hCG (which peaks around the time morning sickness is at its worst). Rising levels of oestrogen and progesterone levels relax the muscles of the digestive tract, making digestion less efficient. A change in the sense of taste and smell worsen the situation.

Quelling the Queasiness:

1. Natural remedies such as ginger (include lots of it in your cooking) or chewing a slice of lemon can ward off nausea.

2. Keep yourself hydrated. Guzzle lots of water, have clear soups, fruit juices and homemade popsicles.

3. Pop the pre-natal vitamins to ensure baby is getting enough nutrients.

4. Graze on small meals throughout the day. This is because you’re more likely to feel queasy when your tummy’s empty.

5. Eat early. Nausea is more likely to strike when you’re on an empty stomach. You might also want to have a light snack just before bed to keep your tummy happy when you wake up in the morning.

Not eating much isn’t a problem in the short term. However, if you’re not able to keep anything down, including fluids, you may have a more serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum. If your nausea is severe and you throw up several times a day, consult your doctor.