# MORNING SICKNESS IN PREGNANCY: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS AND EFFECTIVE REMEDIES
## Expert Pregnancy Care by Dr. Umadevi Karturi, Bangalore
**By Dr. Umadevi Karturi**
**Obstetrician & Gynecologist | Laparoscopic Surgeon**
**Lead Consultant – Medstar Hospital & Omega Hospital, Bangalore**
Morning sickness is one of the most common symptoms during early pregnancy. It usually begins between 5 and 6 weeks of pregnancy and may continue until the end of the first trimester. Although commonly called 'morning sickness, ' nausea and vomiting can occur at any time of the day.
Most women experience mild symptoms, while some may develop severe nausea requiring medical treatment. Understanding the causes and effective remedies can help make pregnancy more comfortable.
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# WHAT IS MORNING SICKNESS?
Morning sickness refers to nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or food aversion that occurs during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
It affects nearly 70–80% of pregnant women and is considered a normal part of early pregnancy in most cases.
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# CAUSES OF MORNING SICKNESS
Several factors contribute to nausea during pregnancy:
### HORMONAL CHANGES
Rising pregnancy hormones such as hCG and estrogen may trigger nausea.
### SENSITIVE SENSE OF SMELL
Pregnant women often become more sensitive to odors.
### SLOWER DIGESTION
Hormonal changes slow stomach emptying.
### LOW BLOOD SUGAR
Long gaps between meals may worsen symptoms.
### STRESS AND FATIGUE
Physical and emotional stress can increase nausea.
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# COMMON SYMPTOMS
• Nausea after waking up
• Vomiting during the day
• Food aversions
• Increased sensitivity to smells
• Reduced appetite
• Excess salivation
• Fatigue
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# EFFECTIVE REMEDIES FOR MORNING SICKNESS
## EAT SMALL FREQUENT MEALS
Eating every 2–3 hours helps prevent an empty stomach.
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## START THE DAY WITH DRY FOODS
Crackers, toast, or biscuits before getting out of bed may reduce nausea.
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## STAY HYDRATED
Drink small amounts of water frequently throughout the day.
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## GINGER MAY HELP
Ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger biscuits may provide relief.
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## LEMON AND CITRUS FRUITS
Lemon water or citrus fruits can help reduce nausea.
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## AVOID STRONG ODORS
Identify and avoid foods or smells that trigger symptoms.
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## GET ADEQUATE REST
Fatigue may worsen nausea, so proper sleep is important.
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# MEDICAL TREATMENT OPTIONS
Your doctor may recommend:
• Vitamin B6 supplementation
• Pregnancy-safe anti-nausea medications
• Intravenous fluids for dehydration
• Hospital treatment for severe cases
Medications should always be taken under medical supervision.
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# DO'S DURING MORNING SICKNESS
✔ Eat small frequent meals.
✔ Keep dry snacks near your bed.
✔ Drink adequate fluids.
✔ Take prescribed prenatal vitamins.
✔ Rest adequately.
✔ Attend regular antenatal visits.
✔ Follow your doctor's advice regarding medications.
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# DON'TS DURING MORNING SICKNESS
❌ Do not skip meals.
❌ Avoid oily and spicy foods if they worsen symptoms.
❌ Do not self-medicate.
❌ Avoid prolonged fasting.
❌ Avoid strong food odors when possible.
❌ Do not ignore severe vomiting or dehydration.
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# WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR?
Consult your doctor if you have:
• Vomiting multiple times daily
• Inability to eat or drink
• Weight loss
• Dizziness or fainting
• Reduced urine output
• Blood in vomit
• Signs of dehydration
Severe nausea and vomiting may indicate hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires medical attention.
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# FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
### 1. When does morning sickness start?
It usually begins between 5 and 6 weeks of pregnancy.
### 2. When does it stop?
Most women improve by 12–14 weeks, although some may continue longer.
### 3. Is morning sickness a good sign?
Nausea often reflects normal pregnancy hormonal changes.
### 4. Can morning sickness harm the baby?
Mild symptoms usually do not affect the baby.
### 5. Which foods help reduce nausea?
Dry crackers, toast, bananas, rice, fruits, and light meals may help.
### 6. Is ginger safe during pregnancy?
Moderate amounts are generally considered safe for many women.
### 7. Can I take medicines for vomiting?
Only medicines prescribed by your doctor should be used.
### 8. When should I worry about vomiting in pregnancy?
Persistent vomiting, dehydration, or inability to eat requires medical evaluation.
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# WHY CHOOSE DR. UMADEVI KARTURI FOR PREGNANCY CARE IN BANGALORE?
Dr. Umadevi Karturi offers comprehensive pregnancy care with a personalized approach for both routine and high-risk pregnancies.
### Services Offered
• Antenatal Care
• High-Risk Pregnancy Management
• Normal Delivery Care
• Cesarean Section
• Early Pregnancy Care
• Pregnancy Scan Guidance
• PCOS Management
• Infertility Evaluation
• Laparoscopic Gynecological Surgery
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# DR. UMADEVI KARTURI
**Obstetrician & Gynecologist**
**Laparoscopic Surgeon**
**Lead Consultant – Medstar Hospital & Omega Hospital, Bangalore**
📞 **Appointments:** 9972692592
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