What Helps Morning Sickness in First Trimester?

For many women, the first few months of pregnancy can mean dealing with the notorious morning sickness. That seasick, unsettled feeling typically starts around week 6 of pregnancy and can last through the first trimester. While it’s dubbed “morning sickness,” the nausea and vomiting can strike at any time of day or night. The exact causes aren’t fully understood but are likely related to hormonal changes. Though it may seem unrelenting while you’re experiencing it, the good news is morning sickness usually improves by weeks 14-16 of pregnancy.

In the meantime, there are several methods you can try to find relief. From dietary changes to medications to home remedies, various approaches may ease your symptoms. Read on to learn about some of the most effective ways to manage morning sickness so you can have a more comfortable first trimester.

Symptoms and Causes of Morning Sickness

Experiencing morning sickness during pregnancy can manifest through various symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Occasional vomiting
• Increased sensitivity to smells
• Excessive salivation
• Tiredness or fatigue

While these are the common symptoms, you must be curious to know what causes severe morning sickness in first trimester, right?

• Hormonal Changes: Elevated levels of pregnancy hormones, particularly HCG and estrogen, play a pivotal role in triggering morning sickness.
• Low Blood Sugar Levels: Fluctuations in blood sugar, specifically a decrease, can contribute to the onset or worsening of morning sickness.
• Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Changes in blood pressure, particularly drops, are linked to the development of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
• Metabolic Adaptations: Pregnancy prompts changes in metabolism as the body adjusts to increased nutritional demands, influencing the occurrence of morning sickness.
• Sensitivity to Odors: Hormonal changes heighten sensitivity to certain smells, making pregnant individuals more susceptible to nausea triggered by specific odors.
• Stress and Fatigue: Emotional stress and physical fatigue act as external factors that can intensify morning sickness symptoms.
• Specific Foods: Consumption of particular foods, especially those with strong smells or flavors, can act as triggers for morning sickness.
• Motion or Travel: Some individuals experience nausea and vomiting in response to motion, such as traveling in a car or other modes of transportation.
• Environmental Factors: Warm weather or heat can contribute to the discomfort associated with morning sickness.

When and How Does Morning Sickness Occur?

Morning sickness typically begins around the sixth week of pregnancy, however, the peak morning sickness in the first trimester is usually observed around weeks eight to ten. Contrary to its name, these symptoms can strike at any time of day. Fortunately, for most individuals, relief comes as they approach the second trimester, around the 13th week.

How to Get Rid of Morning Sickness in First Trimester? – Exploring the Strategies

If you’re a new mom trying to figure out how to reduce morning sickness in the first trimester, we have some best solutions below!

Bland, Easy-to-Digest Foods

One of the oldest tricks, the B.R.A.T. diet, consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, remains effective. These foods are gentle on the stomach and less likely to trigger discomfort.

High-Protein Foods

Protein-rich options such as chicken, peanut butter, and beans can increase the hormone gastrin, aiding digestion and providing relief from nausea.

Cold Beverages and Snacks

Opt for cold drinks and snacks, like smoothies and almond milk, as they are less likely to trigger the gag reflex associated with warm foods.

Carbonated Beverages

While mineral water and sodas may offer relief, moderation is key. Sip slowly and pay attention to potential side effects like bloating.

Herbal Teas and Broth

Staying hydrated is crucial during pregnancy. Herbal teas and broth provide a comforting way to settle the stomach while ensuring hydration.

Fruits and Vegetables High in Water Content

When fluids are challenging, opt for hydrating fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and peaches to stay nourished.

Citrus Fruits

Sniffing or consuming citrus fruits in moderation can reduce nausea. Get creative with how you incorporate lemons and oranges into your diet.

Peppermint

Another time-tested remedy, peppermint, can be enjoyed as tea, in sparkling water, or added to dishes for on-the-go relief.

Foods High in Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, crucial for fetal development, can also help alleviate morning sickness. Incorporate sources like salmon, avocados, and bananas into your diet.

Alternative Methods

Navigating the challenges of morning sickness often leads individuals to consider alternative remedies. While scientific evidence varies, some people have reported relief through these methods. Here are alternative approaches for managing morning sickness:

Acupressure

Acupressure wristbands, readily available without a prescription in most pharmacies, are a popular option. Despite mixed study results, certain individuals have found relief through acupressure.

Acupuncture

In acupuncture, skilled practitioners delicately insert hair-thin needles into the skin. Although not conclusively proven to address morning sickness, some individuals have noted positive outcomes from acupuncture sessions.

Ginger

Ginger, a well-known natural remedy, is recognized for alleviating morning sickness. It is accessible in various forms such as capsules, candies, snaps, authentic ginger ale, and tea crafted with freshly grated ginger.

Hypnosis

Limited research exists on hypnosis, but anecdotal evidence suggests that some individuals have found relief from morning sickness through this alternative method. Exploring hypnosis may provide personalized benefits for managing nausea.

Aromatherapy

Engaging in aromatherapy involves the use of scents, typically derived from essential oils. While research is not extensive, certain individuals find solace in aromatherapy to cope with the challenges of morning sickness.

Caution Regarding Marijuana Use

In regions where marijuana is legally accessible, some individuals might contemplate it as a potential remedy for nausea. However, caution is crucial as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists strongly advises against marijuana use during pregnancy. Potential risks, including cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, underscore the importance of approaching this option with care.

How Many Women Experience Morning Sickness during First Trimester?

Despite the label “morning sickness,” its effects can be felt throughout the day, occurring at any time. Morning sickness is a common experience, affecting at least 7 in 10 pregnant women during the first trimester (the initial 3 months) of pregnancy. Approximately 70% to 80% of pregnant women experience some degree of nausea and vomiting, with the symptoms typically peaking around the 9th week of pregnancy.

While the severity and duration can vary among individuals, morning sickness is considered a normal part of pregnancy for the majority of women. It is often seen as a positive sign of a healthy pregnancy, and the symptoms tend to subside as the pregnancy progresses, usually by the end of the first trimester.

How Long Does Morning Sickness Last in First Trimester?

Morning sickness, or nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, typically improves by the 13th week, signaling the end of the first trimester. Some individuals may experience symptoms into the early second trimester, and in rare cases, morning sickness can persist throughout pregnancy. Contrary to its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of day or night, starting around the 6th week, peaking at week 9, and subsiding by weeks 16 to 18. For personalized guidance or severe symptoms, consult your healthcare provider to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby during pregnancy

Conclusion

Dealing with morning sickness and nausea during the first trimester can feel daunting, but take comfort in knowing that for most women, the symptoms do subside over time. As you navigate this challenging phase, focus on finding personalized relief through dietary adjustments, medications if warranted, and alternative remedies that provide comfort. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance to ensure the well-being of both you and your developing baby.

While it may seem endless in the moment, remember that this too shall pass. Stay hydrated, get adequate rest, and don’t hesitate to ask loved ones for extra support during this transitional trimester as your body adapts to the incredible changes of growing new life.