Queasy? You Can Feel Better

Feeling totally debilitated by morning sickness? There are ways of living with it and treating it.

- Yolandi North

You may be over the moon about thepea-sized person growing inside ofyou, until the first bout of nausea hits. Here are the facts, tips and tricks to understand and survive this rather unwelcome pregnancy symptom.

WHEN DOES IT START AND STOP?

Nausea, together with tender breasts, is often the first sign that there is something in utero and generally starts at around week six of pregnancy.

It is hardly a predictable symptom and (unlike the name suggests), can hit at any time of day or night. You might vomit in the morning but feel fine for the rest of the day. Or you might be constantly queasy but never throw up. Then there are a handful of unlucky moms who will throw up for nine months, nonstop. In most cases, the worst nausea will lift after 12 to 14 weeks. If it doesn’t, you will need to visit your doctor.

POSSIBLE CAUSES

Dr Peter Koll, a gynaecologist and obstetrician at the Sandton Mediclinic, explains: “Morning sickness undoubtedly has to do with the heightened hormone levels and sometimes even the emotional effect of pregnancy.” Increased level of the pregnancy hormone hCG and high oestrogen levels are said to be the main culprits in bringing on the queasiness.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux and the relaxation of muscle tissue in the digestive tract make digestion less efficient and could also be to blame. Of course your heightened sense of smell does not make matters any easier.

WHO GETS IT AND WHO DOESN’T?