How to manage severe morning sickness during early pregnancy

Apr 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, severe early pregnancy reactions may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, increased sense of smell, hyperemesis gravidarum, hyperthyroidism, and molar pregnancy. These conditions can be managed under a doctor's guidance through general treatment, medication, or surgical treatment. Maintaining a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and a regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "routine" or "作息 schedule") can help alleviate early pregnancy symptoms.

Generally, severe early pregnancy reactions may be caused by factors such as hormonal changes, increased olfactory sensitivity, hyperemesis gravidarum, hyperthyroidism, and hydatidiform mole. These conditions can be managed under a doctor's guidance through general treatment, medication, or surgical intervention. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

During early pregnancy, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels rise sharply in the pregnant woman's body, and this hormonal fluctuation is the main cause of early pregnancy reactions. The increase in hCG can affect the digestive system, causing symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. It is recommended to maintain a bland diet and avoid oily, spicy, or irritating foods. Additionally, maintaining good sleep habits and avoiding late nights and excessive fatigue is advised.

2. Increased Olfactory Sensitivity

During early pregnancy, a woman's sense of smell typically becomes more sensitive, making her particularly responsive to certain odors, which may trigger nausea and vomiting. It is recommended to avoid exposure to irritating smells such as cooking fumes and perfume. Keeping indoor air fresh by regularly opening windows for ventilation can help reduce discomfort caused by unpleasant odors.

3. Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of early pregnancy reaction, possibly related to excessively high hCG levels, maternal constitution, and psychological factors. It is characterized by frequent and severe vomiting, which may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Symptoms such as weight loss and reduced urine output may also occur. Treatment may include medications such as pyridoxine (vitamin B6) tablets, thiamine (vitamin B1) pills, and dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection, as directed by a physician.

4. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism during early pregnancy may be associated with autoimmune diseases, excessive iodine intake, and other factors. This condition may cause excessive secretion of thyroid hormones, accelerating metabolism and subsequently disrupting the endocrine system and irritating the gastrointestinal tract, thus worsening early pregnancy symptoms. Symptoms such as palpitations and excessive sweating may also occur. Treatment may involve medications such as methimazole tablets, propylthiouracil tablets, and levothyroxine sodium tablets, as prescribed by a doctor.

5. Hydatidiform Mole

A hydatidiform mole is a benign gestational trophoblastic disease caused by abnormal fertilization and development of the egg. The trophoblastic cells proliferate and produce large amounts of hCG, which, at excessively high levels, can stimulate the body and cause more intense early pregnancy symptoms such as severe nausea and vomiting. Symptoms such as abnormal uterine enlargement and abdominal pain may also appear. If diagnosed, immediate evacuation of the uterus (dilation and curettage) may be necessary, followed by regular postoperative follow-ups to monitor hCG levels.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy diet, sufficient sleep, and a regular lifestyle helps regulate hormonal levels and alleviate early pregnancy symptoms.

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Can lychee relieve morning sickness in pregnant women?

In general, lychee may have a certain auxiliary effect in relieving morning sickness in pregnant women, but its effectiveness is limited. Pregnant women should pay attention to moderate consumption. When eating lychees, it is recommended to choose fresh, ripe fruits and avoid consuming them on an empty stomach; small amounts can be eaten between meals. In daily life, it is important to maintain a light and varied diet, and to eat easily digestible foods such as soda crackers and millet porridge appropriately.

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Can apple juice relieve morning sickness during pregnancy?

In general, apple juice can help alleviate morning sickness to some extent during pregnancy, but it should be consumed in moderation. The effectiveness of apple juice in relieving morning sickness varies from person to person and is applicable only for mild cases. If the morning sickness is severe, accompanied by frequent vomiting or an inability to eat, prompt medical attention is required. Freshly squeezed apple juice is recommended, while processed juices containing added sugar, preservatives, or other additives should be avoided.

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How often should pregnant women eat sea cucumbers?

If a pregnant woman has a "hot" body constitution, or is experiencing strong morning sickness and weak digestive function during early pregnancy, the interval between two servings of sea cucumber should be longer, such as once every 10–15 days. Consuming large amounts of sea cucumber may intensify internal heat in individuals with a hot constitution. During early pregnancy, the gastrointestinal tract is sensitive and the high-protein content of sea cucumber can be difficult to digest. Increasing the interval between servings helps reduce bodily strain and prevent discomfort.

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Can I eat lychee during early pregnancy?

If the morning sickness is mild during early pregnancy, gastrointestinal function is normal, blood sugar levels are stable, and there are no signs of excessive internal heat such as dry mouth or constipation, a small amount of lychee may be consumed. Lychee is rich in glucose and vitamin C, which can provide energy needed during early pregnancy, alleviate fatigue, and its iron content may help prevent anemia during pregnancy. In such cases, the mother's digestive function is not significantly affected, and consuming a small amount of lychee is unlikely to cause discomfort.