Get pregnant, will throw up. Is this a typical formula for expectant Mummas? Or is it a bad way for actors on TV shows to show that they may have a bun in the oven?
We have heard, seen and experienced all kinds. A first easy pregnancy and a second one with terrible nausea. Mummas who had it smooth sailing all the way and others who were sick all day and night from the time they conceived to just before pushing out the baby.
“Morning sickness” is thus a misnomer. The vomiting, nausea and sensitivity to smells and foods (that the pregnant person may have previously been very fond of) will not just occur in the early hours but can extend all day, beyond the first trimester up to just before the baby is born!
If you’re sick, then it’s a girl!
Some superstitions like to suggest that morning sickness only occurs if the Mum is expecting a girl, due to the hormonal changes and higher levels of estrogen. This sex prediction theory is a myth: throw a stick into the ocean of parents out there and it can be easily disproved! However, a 2017 study did find a higher coincidence of women carrying girls experiencing inflammation when their immune systems were exposed to bacteria than when carrying boys. This may thus affect how women carrying girls experience morning sickness. However, the study does not offer conclusive evidence on this correlation and more research is needed to connect morning sickness with girl babies.
When to get help
There are however some situations where morning sickness can be severely debilitating and require medical help. Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is morning sickness that extends beyond the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The mother may experience not just severe nausea and vomiting but dehydration and weight loss as a result.
First-time Mummas, Mummas who are overweight, have a history of HG in the family and /or are pregnant with multiples have higher associations with severe morning sickness.
If you think you have HG, do seek medical attention immediately so as not to jeopardise the health of yourself or your baby. Your doctor will likely take a blood and urine sample and possibly an ultrasound. Treatment can vary from being prescribed vitamin pills or a holistic alternative to hospitalisation and being given intravenous fluids while on bed rest.
Whatever your situation, don’t be afraid to voice your concerns openly with your partner or primary caregiver.
You can find some Alternative Therapists and Doulas in our Directory.