How to relieve nausea and discomfort during pregnancy

Nov 09, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, nausea and discomfort during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, increased sensitivity of smell and taste, uterine enlargement, peptic ulcer, cholecystitis, and other factors. Management depends on the specific situation. If the symptoms of pregnancy-related nausea and discomfort are severe and affect normal eating and daily life, it is recommended that the pregnant woman seek timely medical evaluation and diagnosis at a hospital, and receive treatment under the guidance of a physician.

Generally, nausea and discomfort during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, increased sensitivity of smell and taste, uterine enlargement, cholecystitis, peptic ulcer, and other factors. Appropriate management depends on the specific situation.

1. Hormonal Changes: In early pregnancy, significant hormonal fluctuations occur, particularly a sharp increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels, which may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and lead to nausea and a feeling of vomiting. It is recommended to eat small, frequent meals to avoid overeating and reduce the burden on the stomach.

2. Increased Sensitivity of Smell and Taste: During pregnancy, a woman's sense of smell and taste may become more sensitive. Certain odors that were previously tolerable may now trigger strong nausea. It is advisable to maintain fresh indoor air and avoid exposure to unpleasant odors.

3. Uterine Enlargement: In the middle and later stages of pregnancy, the enlarged uterus may press upward on the stomach. When the pressure within the stomach exceeds the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, gastric acid may reflux into the esophagus, causing symptoms of nausea. It is recommended to avoid wearing tight clothing to reduce abdominal pressure and alleviate the compression of the stomach by the uterus.

4. Cholecystitis: During pregnancy, changes in bile composition and prolonged gallbladder emptying time may predispose to cholecystitis. Inflammatory changes can impair gallbladder contraction and bile drainage, potentially causing right upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It is recommended to take medications such as sucralfate tablets or bismuth potassium citrate granules under medical guidance.

5. Peptic Ulcer: Some women may have had peptic ulcers prior to pregnancy. During pregnancy, physiological changes and psychological stress may exacerbate the condition. When the ulcerated area is irritated by gastric acid, it may cause pain and nausea. It is recommended to take medications such as colloidal bismuth pectin capsules or compound aluminum hydroxide tablets under medical supervision.

If symptoms of severe nausea and discomfort during pregnancy significantly affect normal eating and daily life, pregnant women should seek timely medical evaluation and treatment under a physician's guidance.

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