Pregnancy causes so many changes to the body, and some of the most frequent symptoms are nausea and vomiting. For many, it begins early in pregnancy and will resolve by the second trimester. But for some, it will be more severe and last much longer. Vomiting every day can be frightening and exhausting. So just how much is too much? And when do you call the doctor?
To understand better, Dr Maya P. L. Gade, Consultant, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Kokilaben Dhirubhia Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, puts across her views on why vomiting occurs during pregnancy and what is normal.
How Common Is Vomiting in Pregnancy?
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, popularly referred to as NVP, occur in about 70 to 80% of expecting women, according to Dr Gade. For the majority, it remains controlled and reduces after the first trimester. "But approximately 2 to 5% of women have more severe and persistent vomiting," according to Dr. Gade. It is known as Hyperemesis Gravidarum and may persist well into later pregnancy.
What Puts You at Risk?
Some things may put you at risk for severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. These are:
- Being a first-time pregnant woman (primigravida)
- Pregnancy with twins or higher-order multiples
- History of motion sickness or migraine
- Obesity
- Consuming fatty foods and irregular meals
- Poor work status or part-time employment
- Family history of maternal (genetics)
- Emotional or psychological stress
- Underlying fetal conditions such as triploidy or Down syndrome
As stated by Dr Gade, hormonal shifts, particularly excessive levels of the hormone hCG, are a major contributor to inducing vomiting. Any imbalanced levels of thyroid also contribute to the symptoms.
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Is It Harmful to Vomit Daily?
Daily vomiting can't always be hazardous if you can still eat, drink, and remain active. However, if you can't keep food or fluids down, then it's time to call a doctor.
When to get medical attention:
- You can't keep anything down
- You're dizzy or feel faint
- Vomit is bloody
- You're losing weight
- You feel too weak to get through the day
- These may be symptoms of Hyperemesis Gravidarum, which requires close monitoring and treatment.
What Can Ease Vomiting?
Dr Gade suggests some easy tips that can make day-to-day nausea better:
- Have small, light meals during the day
- Steer clear of fatty, spicy, or fried foods
- Drink liquids such as electrolyte beverages or clear broths
- Have ginger tea or suck on lemon slices (if non-allergic)
- Take plenty of rest and emotional support from family and friends
- In more serious instances, physicians can prescribe oral drugs or, in some instances, provide IV nutrition.
Dr Gade further states, "Supportive psychotherapy and behavioural therapy might be useful for women experiencing stress, depression, or family conflict related to nausea." According to a study that appeared in the BMJ Clinical Evidence journal, morning sickness is generally mild but can sometimes be severe and require treatment. Recurrent vomiting can cause dehydration, imbalance of electrolytes, and loss of weight, necessitating prompt medical care and, at times, hospitalisation.
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Conclusion
Expectant vomiting is common in most women, particularly in the initial months. However, if it becomes excessive or impacts your well-being, do not overlook it. Discuss with a physician, seek guidance, and adopt small but useful rituals. Most women can pass through this period safely and comfortably under proper care.