Morning sickness is defined by nausea and occasional vomiting. It may also cause discomfort during the later hours of the day. These symptoms usually present themselves in expectant moms during the first four months and often one of the first signs of pregnancy.

What causes morning sickness?

Though there is no single cause of morning sickness, the increased hormone levels experienced in the first weeks of pregnancy and low blood sugars are the common reasons. Some factors that might make it worse include:

• Frequent travelling
• Having triplets or twins
• Emotional stress
• Excessive fatigue

It is common for the first pregnancy to be accompanied by severe morning sickness, but mild symptoms in future pregnancies.

Complications that may result from morning sickness

In very rare cases, the symptoms may become very severe and lead to weight loss. This condition may harm the baby if not treated. If you experience conditions such as fever, dizziness, frequent headaches, weight loss of more than 1.3kg, abdominal pains and severe nausea in the second trimester, seek help from a doctor immediately. Some patients may require to be hospitalised to be hydrated using intravenous fluids.

How to cure morning sickness

Based on your symptoms, the doctor will conduct some tests just to ensure that the baby is well. They may then prescribe medication or supplements to reduce the nausea and to help you hold the fluids and food that you take. These are the common prescriptions:

• Antacids: absorb acid in the stomach to prevent reflux
• Phenothiazine: cool down severe vomiting and nausea
• Metoclopramide: this is to help food along from the stomach to the intestines which stops vomiting

Alternative remedies

Some types of remedies may reduce the effects of morning sickness. They should be tried only after consulting with a doctor:

• Acupuncture
• Vitamin B6 supplements
• Hypnosis
• Prenatal vitamins
• Most ginger products

How to prevent morning sickness

The following tips may help you overcome or reduce the effects of nausea:

• Drinking lots of fluids
• Taking vitamins
• Taking naps
• Keeping away from spicy foods
• Taking small meals
• Ventilating spaces to remove nauseous scents
• Avoiding fatty food

Do consult a doctor if you require further help in managing your symptoms. All forms of remedies for morning sickness should not be self-prescribed.

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