Most women do not find out they are pregnant until after the 6th week of pregnancy. This could mean the first signs of pregnancy, morning sickness, may be attributed to stomach flu or other illness early on.
Morning illness often presents as a set of symptoms that characterize early pregnancy. These often include tender breasts, back pain, constipation and increased sense of smell.
There is a good chance constipation and increased sense of smell may be contributing factors to pregnancy illnesses and may even make the condition worse for some women.
As is the case with most pregnancy symptoms, morning sickness is completely natural and safe. Many obstetricians suggest keeping crackers or toast next to the bed and eating before getting up to start the day to fend off morning sickness.
If symptoms occur later in the day, crackers and toast may help, but pregnant women may also find relief by taking a nap or sipping on warm, ginger tea. Peppermint has also been shown to help calm an uneasy stomach associated with morning sickness.
While pregnant women tend to worry about the effect of vomiting on the fetus, symptoms do not last long enough to make a substantial impact in most cases. If morning sickness is severe, the obstetrician may prescribe medication to fight nausea so the pregnant woman can eat enough to keep baby and mom healthy and growing.
About video: Discover how to help morning sickness by eating smaller meals and taking in plenty of fluids before eating with help from a labor and delivery nurse in this free video on pregnancy symptoms.
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