Morning Sickness
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Morning sickness cannot always be prevented. Some women find diet
and lifestyle changes helpful in reducing symptoms. The mother is advised to
avoid things that produce the symptoms, such as certain foods and smells. She
should eat smaller, more frequent meals. Dry crackers or toast, tea, cold
liquids, and carbonated drinks may help lessen morning sickness. Eating before
getting out of bed may help prevent the nausea.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Prolonged morning sickness can cause weight loss, dehydration, salt
imbalances, and
malnutrition. If these are not treated, they can lead to liver,
kidney, heart, and brain damage to the mother and the fetus.
Severe morning sickness can strain a marriage and hinder job performance. Most
women feel better after the start of the second trimester, and
the
pregnancy can continue with no further problems.
What are the risks to others?
There are risks to the fetus if morning sickness is severe enough. Severe
morning sickness, or hyperemesis gravidarum, can cause low birth weight and
fetal growth retardation. The blood flow to the placenta and fetus is also
decreased Less oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the baby. Low birth weight
is often linked with poorer mental function and reduced overall health of the
baby.
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