Morning sickness: Symptoms, triggers and effective home remedies to avoid pregnancy complications

Health benefits of ginger: Known to be a well-accepted natural remedy for nausea during pregnancy, ginger aids in effectively reducing the feeling of morning sickness (Image: Canva)

Pregnancy is accompanied by a variety of symptoms that include amenorrhea (missed periods), fatigue, general malaise, and breast enlargement. Hormonal changes, particularly elevated levels of beta human chorionic gonadotropin and estradiol, are believed to be responsible for increased nausea.

Morning Sickness: One of the most common pregnancy symptoms is nausea, with or without vomiting, affecting anywhere from 50 percent to 90 percent of expectant mothers — this phenomenon, commonly known as morning sickness, results from hormonal fluctuations inherent to pregnancy. Morning sickness typically starts around 4 to 6 weeks and peaks between 8 to 12 weeks.

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Besides, it can occur at any time of the day and may sometimes lead to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum. Factors such as multiple gestations, heartburn, and acid reflux can exacerbate these symptoms.

Morning sickness and miscarriage: While morning sickness can be inconvenient and uncomfortable, research suggests that mothers who experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy tend to have a lower rate of miscarriage compared to those who do not.

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Here are a few home remedies to help ameliorate morning sickness:

Ginger-ly approach: Ginger is known to be a well-accepted natural remedy for nausea during pregnancy. Consuming ginger aids in effectively reducing the feeling of morning sickness. However, it may be accompanied by heartburn if taken in excessive amounts. Besides, ginger is considered a safe alternative for relieving this symptom of pregnancy.

Sieve your food choices: It is crucial to select food items that are high in protein, low in fat and are easily digestible. Avoid greasy, spicy and fat-filled foods. Bland options like bananas and rice (and even toast) may be easier on the stomach.

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Fill up on fluids: Hydrating is essential, significantly, as vomiting may reduce the electrolyte levels. Sipping adequate amounts of water and consuming ginger ale or ginger tea may be advised. An intake of 6 to 8 cups of fluids may be taken reasonably without caffeine.

Mint-solutions: A popular mouth freshener, eating or chewing mint or items containing mint can help pregnant mothers feel relaxed and less nauseated. Such items can also aid in concealing unpleasant odours that may trigger a stomach ache. Pregnant women can also consider using mint lip balms or essential oils to lessen the nauseating feeling. A mint item may be chewed after a bout of vomiting as well.

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Be cautious with prenatal vitamins: Taking the prescribed vitamins with a snack or perhaps just before bed is advised. Gummy or chewable types of vitamins can also be tried. Iron supplements may not be taken during the first trimester, as they can worsen the symptoms of morning sickness. It is crucial, though, to take iron and folic acid tablets in the subsequent trimesters.

Acupuncture and exercise: Specialists of acupressure and acupuncture can help treat nausea. Gentle pressure on the fingertips has been speculated to ease morning sickness.

Though pregnancy is a time that can cause exertion, a stroll every now and then may help in relieving the symptoms.