Morning sickness (Nausea) is one of the classic signs of early pregnancy. The majority of expectant mothers (up to 70%) experience nausea and vomiting.
Although these signs and symptoms are commonly known as morning sickness, the name is misleading because nausea and vomiting can occur at any time of the day. The signs and symptoms typically first start at four to eight weeks of gestation and subside by 13 to 14 weeks. But some women have nausea and vomiting beyond the first trimester. Morning sickness may be more severe in a first pregnancy, in young women and in women carrying multiple fetuses. The cause of morning sickness isn’t completely understood, although the relaxation of the stomach muscle probably plays a part. The stomach empties somewhat more slowly under the influence of pregnancy hormones. Another possible cause is the rapidly rising levels of estrogen produced by the placenta and fetus. Emotional stress, fatigue, traveling and some types of food may aggravate the problem.
One of the more common treatments for severe morning sickness is Zofran. Zofran is a newer very powerful antiemetic. An antiemetic is a drug that is effective against vomiting and nausea.General side effects of zofran are headache,diarrhea,constipation and fever.
It is always better to use natural techniques to solve morning sickness.Here are some dietary suggestions for preventing or relieving nausea:
Eat smaller meals or snacks frequently throughout the day. Before getting out of bed in the morning, eat a couple of soda crackers or a piece of dry toast. Rise slowly, allowing some time for digestion to occur before you get up. Have a small snack at bedtime and when you get up to go to the bathroom at night. Avoid foods and smells that trigger nausea. Drink fewer fluids with your meals. Eat more carbohydrates, such as white rice, dry toast or a plain baked potato.