Our Austin OBGYNs answer common questions about morning sickness
Many women experience the nausea and vomiting of morning sickness during pregnancy, often during the first trimester. This condition is rarely harmful to the mother or the baby, and evidence even suggests a decreased risk of miscarriage in pregnant women who experience nausea and vomiting.
To help women learn what to expect, our Austin OBGYNs offer answers to commonly asked questions about nausea in pregnancy.
When does morning sickness usually start, and how long does it last?
Nausea typically begins in the first trimester, before week 9 of pregnancy, and ends by week 14, or the beginning of the second trimester. However, some women will experience nausea and vomiting for longer periods of time or throughout their pregnancy.
Which risk factors increase the likelihood of developing symptoms?
Several risk factors increase a woman’s risk of experiencing this common pregnancy condition.
- Nausea and vomiting during past pregnancies
- A pregnancy with multiple babies
- A mother or a sister who has experienced morning sickness
- Personal history of motion sickness or gastrointestinal problems, such as heartburn
When should a woman contact her physician about her symptoms?
If a woman’s morning sickness is affecting her daily life and causing her concern, she should call our Austin OBGYNs. If she experiences any of the symptoms listed below, she should call our physicians immediately.
- The inability to keep liquids down for 12 or more hours
- Lightheadedness or dizziness, which may indicate dehydration
- Dry mouth
- Racing heart
- Low urine output
- Dark colored urine
What are the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum?
Hyperemesis gravidarum is not common. It only occurs in about 3% of pregnancies, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
This severe morning sickness condition causes women to lose weight and suffer from problems associated with dehydration. These women need special treatment, which may include IV fluids, vitamin supplements or even hospitalization. The goal of treatment is to stop the vomiting, treat dehydration and restore bodily fluids.
Is there any treatment for morning sickness?
Morning sickness treatment is usually based on changes in diet and lifestyle, such as eating small meals frequently, avoiding unpleasant odors, and taking ginger supplements.
Women with more severe nausea that isn’t relieved by lifestyle changes may need to consult with our Austin OBGYNs. Our physicians may suggest certain over-the-counter or prescription medications as a morning sickness treatment.
Our Austin OBGYNs help women work through nausea in pregnancy
Nausea in pregnancy is not usually serious, but it can affect a pregnant woman’s daily life.
Our compassionate Austin OBGYNs are always here to answer questions and provide suggestions to help women have the best pregnancy experience possible. Contact us for an appointment.
