Do you have nausea and vomiting during your pregnancy? Symptoms and treatments you need to know.

Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy in Ontario

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, often called morning sickness, is a very common condition that affects many pregnant people every year. So what causes nausea and vomiting in pregnancy? These symptoms are primarily caused by hormonal changes, particularly increases in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, as well as changes in digestion and sensitivity to smells. As a pharmacist, I frequently speak with patients experiencing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy and can provide guidance on safe symptom management and prevention strategies.

Symptoms of Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy

The most common symptoms include:

• Feeling queasy or nauseated, often in the morning

• Vomiting or retching

• Loss of appetite or aversion to certain foods

• Fatigue or weakness due to persistent nausea

• Dehydration or electrolyte imbalance in severe cases

• Weight loss in more severe or prolonged cases

Symptoms typically appear around the first trimester, although they can occur at any time during pregnancy.

Preventing Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy

There are several steps you can take to help reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy:

• Eat small, frequent meals: Avoid an empty stomach and eat light, bland foods throughout the day.

• Stay hydrated: Drink water, clear fluids, or electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration.

• Avoid triggers: Strong smells, greasy or spicy foods, and certain medications can worsen nausea.

• Get adequate rest: Fatigue can intensify nausea, so ensure sufficient sleep and rest breaks.

Treatment of Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy in Ontario

If nausea and vomiting are severe, persistent, or causing dehydration, it’s important to seek treatment early. If you’ve experienced morning sickness and symptoms are worsening or impacting daily life, you can contact a pharmacist through RxToday.ca for a virtual assessment in Ontario.

A pharmacist may recommend safe at-home treatments, including:

• Over-the-counter remedies: Certain anti-nausea products approved for pregnancy

• Prescription medications: For moderate to severe cases, a pharmacist can discuss options that are safe during pregnancy

• Lifestyle and dietary adjustments: Guidance on food choices, hydration, and meal timing

Always remember: It is crucial to avoid medications not approved for use in pregnancy. Follow your pharmacist’s instructions carefully, and if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, low urine output, or rapid heartbeat), seek prompt medical attention.