Is it normal to feel nauseous and vomit at 37 weeks of pregnancy?

Aug 24, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Nausea and vomiting at 37 weeks of gestation are mostly abnormal. Given that the pregnancy has reached 37 weeks, other underlying conditions should be considered—for example, some individuals may have gastroenteritis, fever, or other gastrointestinal disorders such as pancreatitis, cholecystitis, or liver disease (e.g., acute fatty liver of pregnancy).

  In daily life, many people experience nausea and vomiting—symptoms that may result from consuming contaminated food or from hypoglycemia. When this occurs, patients’ appetite is significantly affected, and their physical health may also suffer. It is essential to identify effective interventions. So, is nausea and vomiting at 37 weeks of pregnancy normal?

  Is nausea and vomiting at 37 weeks of pregnancy normal?

  Nausea and vomiting at 37 weeks of gestation are generally considered abnormal. By this stage—being near term—such symptoms often indicate underlying complications. For instance, some individuals may have gastroenteritis; others may have a fever or other digestive system disorders, such as pancreatitis, cholecystitis, or liver disease (e.g., acute fatty liver of pregnancy). Hypertensive disorders—including preeclampsia—may also manifest with nausea and vomiting. Therefore, if nausea and vomiting occur at 37 weeks of pregnancy, prompt medical evaluation at a hospital is imperative, followed by targeted treatment based on diagnostic findings.

  Nausea and vomiting at 37 weeks of pregnancy are not physiological and warrant clinical attention. Gastrointestinal conditions—such as indigestion, acute gastroenteritis, overeating, or consumption of excessively greasy, hard-to-digest, fried, or barbecued foods—can irritate the gastric mucosa, leading to epigastric pain, nausea, and vomiting. Additionally, in the second and third trimesters, hypertension may elevate intracranial pressure, resulting in nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. Thus, comprehensive evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause, followed by appropriate symptomatic management.

  Patients are advised to prioritize rest and avoid excessive physical exertion. Dietary adjustments are also crucial: emphasize fresh vegetables and fruits, which can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, support fetal growth and development, and enhance maternal physical resilience. We hope this information proves helpful.