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When you’re asked what the first and most common sign of pregnancy is, you’re bound to think of nausea and vomiting. From movies and books to personal experiences, a woman puking her guts out during pregnancy isn’t just an exaggeration; it is a very real thing. Every woman who is pregnant does not experience nausea, but most of them do. Now, if you belong to the latter, the chances are that you’re sick and disgusted with this symptom.
Vomiting and nausea is not the best feeling in the world, so the fact that you have to deal with it may be a bit of a downer. But there is an upside to it too! If you’re wondering how on earth any good can come out of all that nausea, read on because you’re in for one hell of a surprise!
Nausea During Pregnancy: The Perks
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Food aversions, dizziness, and extreme sensitivity to smells can all cause severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. However, most people will tell you that nausea during pregnancy is good because, for one, it indicates that you’re having a healthy pregnancy. It is believed that vomiting is a way to eliminate certain toxins from the body, which would keep your baby safe.
A study was conducted on a group of around eight hundred pregnant women. Now, these women had a history of miscarriages. During the trial, it was observed that 188 women from the lot suffered from a miscarriage again. However, close to seventy-five percent of them experienced nausea and vomiting when they reached the eighth week of their pregnancy. These women were less likely to suffer from a miscarriage again (1), (2).
But that is not all! According to researchers, morning sickness is believed to be an indication of high IQ in your child. Also, the more, the better, so the research goes on to prove that the more morning sickness you’ve had, the more intelligent your child will be. If it sounds ridiculous, then maybe a scientific explanation will help: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (GCH) is responsible for all that morning sickness during pregnancy. When your body releases GCH, it also creates an environment conducive to better neural development within the placenta. So, it’s a rather smart cycle: the more you puke, the more GCH is involved, which in turn means better neuronal development in your unborn kiddo. Many studies were conducted on the kids of mothers who had nausea during pregnancy, and we weren’t disappointed. These kids scored more on the IQ tests they were subjected to compared to the kids whose mothers didn’t particularly suffer from nausea (3).
Dealing With Morning Sickness
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Knowing that your nausea might be a good thing is great and all, but that doesn’t make it any less uncomfortable! Suffering from morning sickness can literally tire you out, but the good thing is that you may be able to handle it better, and here’s how (4):
Careful With What You Eat
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It’s true that you may crave different foods, but stick to healthy and light ones. Have a good amount of protein and healthy fats, but stay away from foods that are too greasy and oily. Processed foods are a no-no too.
Keep Yourself Hydrated
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If you have been puking, the chances are that you’re losing a considerable amount of water. So, make sure you hydrate yourself. Drink plenty of water and other fluids. If you’re not okay with plain water, you can try your hand at flavored or infused water or tender coconut water.
Stay Away From Triggers
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Morning sickness starts in the early stages of pregnancy, and after a few bouts of nausea and vomiting, you will slowly begin to understand your triggers. It could be the smell of eggs, spicy foods, or even strong perfume. Whatever it is, try your best to stay away from such triggers.
Get Your Vitamins
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Pregnancy is a crucial time; you need essential nutrients for yourself and the baby inside you. What you eat may not give you all the vitamins you need, so get a multivitamin supplement that is well-suited for pregnant women. Make sure you ask your doctor before getting your supplements to avoid any complications that may arise from self-medication.
Step Outside, And Breathe!
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The fresh outside air can help with nausea. You could incorporate an evening or morning walk so you can enjoy some fresh air. Make sure your house is well ventilated, open up doors and windows, so you don’t feel suffocated.
Pregnancy is a wonderful time, but it does come with a bunch of unexpected and uncomfortable things, and morning sickness is definitely one of them. However, there’s one mantra that most (if not all) pregnant women swear by — this too shall pass! You’re not going to be pregnant forever, nor are you going to be suffering from morning sickness all your life. In most cases, morning sickness goes away on its own after the first trimester of pregnancy (5). Do you have any tips for dealing with morning sickness? Let us know in the comments below!
