Morning Sickness

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Morning sickness cannot always be prevented. Some women find diet and lifestyle changes helpful in reducing symptoms. The mother is advised to avoid things that produce the symptoms, such as certain foods and smells. She should eat smaller, more frequent meals. Dry crackers or toast, tea, cold liquids, and carbonated drinks may help lessen morning sickness. Eating before getting out of bed may help prevent the nausea.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Prolonged morning sickness can cause weight loss, dehydration, salt imbalances, and malnutrition. If these are not treated, they can lead to liver, kidney, heart, and brain damage to the mother and the fetus.

Severe morning sickness can strain a marriage and hinder job performance. Most women feel better after the start of the second trimester, and the pregnancy can continue with no further problems.

What are the risks to others?

There are risks to the fetus if morning sickness is severe enough. Severe morning sickness, or hyperemesis gravidarum, can cause low birth weight and fetal growth retardation. The blood flow to the placenta and fetus is also decreased Less oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the baby. Low birth weight is often linked with poorer mental function and reduced overall health of the baby.