Top 4 Morning Sickness Myths (by Tracey Patterson)

Pregnancy is often a time when you are hit all sorts of information, some true, some old wives tales. Morning sickness is one of those areas that has it's share of partial truths. Here are four common myths you should know.

1. Be glad if you do have morning sickness. This means you are having a healthy pregnancy.

The myth goes that if you are not miserable and suffering from morning sickness, that something is wrong with your pregnancy. Not true. The reasons for morning sickness are still not completely understood, but it is thought to have something to do with hormone levels. The presence or lack of morning sickness does not indicate a good pregnancy and it is always important to have medical care during your pregnancy. One side fact however, medical professionals have found that morning sickness is associated with a lower rate of miscarriage.

2. The lack of morning sickness means you're having a boy [or a girl].

Again, there is no indication that morning sickness or even the presence of certain hormones means you are having a girl or a boy. There are only a few sure ways to know if you are having a girl or a boy including ultrasound or amniocentesis.

3. If I vomit a lot, it will hurt my baby.

If you throw up from morning sickness, you may feel this way. But this not the case. Your baby is completely safe, even if you throw up four times today. The contractions caused by vomiting cannot hurt your fetus because it is very well protected inside the uterus in the cushion of amniotic fluid.

4. With all the throwing up I'm doing, my baby is not to get the nutrients that she needs.

Mostly false as well, for the most part. If you are taking care of yourself during pregnancy, eating a balance diet and taking prenatal vitamins, you shouldn't have to worry. Even with some throwing up, your body will still be able to get enough nutrients from what you don't throw up to keep your baby healthy. As long as you can keep some fluids down, you and your baby will be OK. Just eat when you feel able.

Morning sickness can only become a problem for your baby if you can't keep any foods, can't keep fluids down and begin to lose weight. When morning sickness is severe it is called hyperemesis gravidarum. If it gets this bad, you must check with your doctor.

Morning sickness is unpleasant. I'm sure not too many (if any) women enjoy or appreciate it. But it is a common fact of pregnancy. Hopefully by you be feeling better by your second trimester. Indeed, 90% of pregnant women with morning sickness feel better by the 16th week. Concentrating on eating and drinking healthy will help you'll get through.



About the Author
Pregnant? Your first trimester is a unique time with unique issues. More information about morning sickness and other events in the beginning for you pregnancy at The First Trimester.