Did you know that pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks or 10 months (though we usually count it as 9 months because some months have 4 weeks and others have 5 weeks)? It is divided into 3 trimesters, each with different physical changes and care guidelines. If any expectant mothers experience morning sickness, we have tips to help manage it and prepare mothers to cope with the symptoms.
The first trimester of pregnancy refers to the first 14 weeks, a crucial period for the development of important organs in the baby’s body, especially the nervous system and the cardiovascular system.By the end of the first trimester, the baby will have all major organs formed, with the remaining pregnancy period focused on continued growth and development, which will take place in the second and third trimesters.
In the first trimester, morning sickness is a common symptom, typically starting around the 8th week of pregnancy. The symptoms are usually most intense around the 10th week and gradually decrease until they subside by the end of the first trimester. This condition is a normal response to the increased levels of pregnancy hormones and is a natural mechanism designed to protect the developing baby in the womb by rejecting food or foreign substances that might enter the mother's body.
Let's address a common misconception that morning sickness and the inability to eat can affect the baby in the womb, causing worry for the mother and family. In reality, morning sickness primarily affects the mother's health, not the baby. During the first trimester, the baby has a personal food source called the "yolk sac." Therefore, morning sickness, which may prevent the mother from eating, does not impact the baby in the womb. While most mothers experience a reduced appetite, only a few are unable to eat anything at all.
For this reason, when experiencing morning sickness, expectant mothers should adjust their eating habits with the key principle of "eat small, but eat often, and don't forget to stay hydrated." This can also be referred to as "snacking frequently." It may help to sip on electrolyte drinks periodically to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Additionally, it's important not to forget to take folic acid supplements throughout the first trimester.
At this stage, expectant mothers don't need to worry about eating for pregnancy nutrition, as most mothers today do not suffer from malnutrition. Appetite and eating habits usually improve and return to normal by the time the second trimester begins.
One thing to be cautious about during this period is that some expectant mothers may have cravings for unusual things, such as charcoal, raw meat, or undercooked food. This can happen, and families should intervene and not encourage such behavior, as it could lead to the risk of infections or poisoning from these foreign substances.
Morning sickness may cause some expectant mothers to be unable to eat or even drink water. This condition is considered dangerous, and it is advised to consult a doctor for treatment, as it could lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that may affect the baby in the womb. Other abnormal symptoms in the first trimester, such as vaginal bleeding or severe lower abdominal pain, may indicate a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, and these require immediate medical attention as well.
Taking care of yourself in the first trimester is not as difficult as it may seem. I wish all expectant mothers strength and support to get through their pregnancy smoothly.
A heartfelt thank for information by Mr. Triphob ‘Tua’ Lertbannaphong, M.D.
Crated At 26/03/2025
