Morning Sickness
Morning Sickness...What is it?
Morning sickness is a common symptom of pregnancy and consists of nausea, fatigue, and/or vomiting.
Despite the name, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day. Some women experience morning sickness all day.
Causes of morning sickness
Morning sickness is said to be caused by hormonal imbalances. One hormone that contributes is hCG. The same hormone that determines pregnancy. HCG is a hormone that is released by the placenta after implantation. HCG causes an increase in progesterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormone, which affects women's bodies in different ways.
Progesterone, when elevated, causes a decrease in magnesium, slows down gastric emptying, relaxes the muscles of the digestive system, and increases the sensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract to other hormones.
Estrogen, when elevated, causes smooth muscles in the stomach and intestines to relax. The relaxation of the esophageal sphincter allows stomach contents to move back into the esophagus. Estrogen surges around the time morning sickness is at its peak.
Thyroid hormone increases during early pregnancy due to the increase in hCG. The increase of the thyroid hormone causes a decrease in TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). This increase can also contribute to nausea production.
Things you can do to get some relief
Magnesium replacement may help with nausea. A deficiency can cause worsening nausea and vomiting.
Eat small, frequent meals.
Eat bland, non-greasy foods like crackers and toast....
It is imperative to stay hydrated.
Drink ginger tea, eat ginger chews, and try peppermint as well.
Avoid strong smells.
Eat green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Until next time... Wombmen Are The Future
