Morning sickness is probably the most well-known pregnancy-related symptom, typically occurring within the first few months of pregnancy. In most cases, morning sickness clears up as your body adjusts to pregnancy. But for some women, morning sickness happens all pregnancy long or makes an unwelcome return in the later months of pregnancy.
Paul Morrison, M.D., is a leading provider of obstetrics care for women in Newburgh, Indiana, offering simple, effective options for helping expectant moms control morning sickness and focus on preparing for their new arrival. In this post, learn why morning sickness may come back during the last trimester of pregnancy.
Despite its name, morning sickness can happen at any time of the day or night. While researchers aren’t completely sure why morning sickness happens, they do know it’s related to changes in hormones that happen during the initial weeks of pregnancy.
Levels of estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) rapidly increase to support fetal development and get your body ready for the later months of pregnancy. Recent research has identified another hormone — this time, a chemical produced by the fetus — that likely plays a key role in morning sickness as well.
Together, these hormonal changes cause digestive system sensitivity, along with changes in overall gastrointestinal function that lead to morning sickness, bloating, and general gastric discomfort. Changes in blood sugar levels and fatigue can also contribute to feelings of nausea.
Although morning sickness tends to be more common in the early weeks of pregnancy when hormonal fluctuations begin, some women have nausea symptoms later in pregnancy or even persisting all the way until delivery. While hormonal changes may still play a key role in morning sickness symptoms, other factors are also likely in play.
As your baby grows, your belly grows with it, and your expanding uterus begins to exert pressure on the organs around it, including your stomach. Eventually, your stomach is pushed upward, leading to gastric distress and symptoms like nausea and heartburn. Pregnancy hormones also slow down digestion and may also increase your sensitivity to smells or certain foods, exacerbating feelings of nausea.
These benign causes can often be treated with a few lifestyle changes, including changes in eating habits or over-the-counter (OTC) antacids. But there are more serious health issues that can cause nausea, including dangerous changes in blood pressure or blood sugar. Bottom line: Even though morning sickness is common in pregnancy, it’s still important to discuss your symptoms with Dr. Morrison, so he can determine if additional testing is warranted.
Morning sickness is unpleasant and disruptive, no matter what’s causing it. To find relief for your symptoms, call 812-490-5200 or book an appointment online with the practice of Paul W. Morrison, M.D., today.
