One of the most difficult parts of the first trimester of your pregnancy is dealing with morning sickness. This is very common in pregnancy, and most women experience at least some nausea.
Feeling sick typically begins during the first month of pregnancy and can last well into the 16th week. However, some women experience morning sickness throughout their entire pregnancy.
Although you may worry that feeling so sick can hurt your baby, it doesn’t. You should also keep in mind that the amount of morning sickness you experience during your first pregnancy doesn’t predict whether or not you will have it during future pregnancies.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the cause of morning sickness is unknown. However, some health experts believe it may be due to hormonal changes and lower blood sugar levels. Women who experience emotional stress, fatigue, and who eat certain foods may find their symptoms worsen.
5 Things That Can Make Morning Sickness Worse
1. Doing too much: If you’re trying to do everything — taking care of yourself, your home, and your work — you may actually make morning sickness worse. Overdoing it during pregnancy can increase fatigue and intensify nausea.
2. Food aversions: Every pregnancy is different, but certain foods can worsen nausea. Some women tolerate bland foods like toast, fruit, or mashed potatoes, while others may struggle to keep down even small snacks. 👉 Related: Foods to Avoid During the First Trimester
3. Being overly tired: Sleep is essential during pregnancy. When you don’t get enough rest, nausea and fatigue can intensify and leave you feeling unwell throughout the day.
4. Dehydration: Vomiting and reduced appetite can make dehydration more likely. Try to drink small amounts of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and reduce queasiness.
5. Not eating regularly: An empty stomach can make nausea worse. Many pregnant women find relief by eating small, frequent meals throughout the day instead of large meals.
Is there anything that makes your morning sickness worse? Join in the discussion below!