Nausea caused by pregnancy, sometimes called “morning sickness,” is a fairly common symptom of pregnancy. Around 70% of all new moms-to-be will experience morning sickness. Morning sickness can occur at any time of the day, not just during the morning. This nausea may be constant, as it is for some women; or, it may just occur occasionally. The degree to which you feel sick can also vary; you might just feel a little woozy, or you might experience full fledged vomiting.

Researchers are not certain what causes nausea during pregnancy. It may be that the rapidly changing hormone levels in your body, combined with an enhanced sense of smell and excess stomach acids are to blame. Other theories suggest that nausea during pregnancy is caused by the buildup of hCG (human Chorionic Gonadotropin). hCG continues to build up in your system until about the 12th week of your pregnancy, at which point the levels of hCG starts to decrease. This theory seems to be most consistent with actual experience.

Not all moms-to-be will experience nausea. Some research has linked a lack of nausea to an increased rate of miscarriage, but there have been other studies that suggest the opposite. There is no conclusive research to suggest that a lack of morning sickness indicates any sort of problem with the pregnancy.

There are a variety of things that a mom-to-be can do to alleviate morning sickness. They can include:

- Avoid foods that are high in fat, especially saturated fats.

- Avoid foods with strong smells that could trigger nausea.

- Sea bands or motion sickness wrist bands may help some women who have morning sickness.

- Eat small, frequent snacks and meals to avoid feeling either hungry or too full.

- Use rice cakes or crackers to counteract nausea.

- Make sure to keep hydrated.

- Many women have had success using a variety of ginger products, such as ginger root supplements or ginger tea to help combat morning sickness.

- Your nausea may be caused by the iron in your pre-natal vitamin. If you believe this is the case, speak with your health care provider about other options.

Posted in Pregnancy

Related Articles:

When does morning sickness start in the first trimester

I don’t have morning sickness, is my baby going to be okay?

Morning Sickness During The Second Trimester

How long does morning sickness last?

Help! Nothing is helping with this all day morning sickness!

How can I deal with morning sickness safely?

Finding Emotional Support When You Have Morning Sickness

Nausea And Vomiting Returning During The Second Trimester

How long does morning sickness last?

I don’t have morning sickness, is my baby going to be okay?

Morning Sickness During The Second Trimester

How Do I Soothe Morning Sickness Naturally?