Often referred to as morning sickness, nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy can happen any time of the day, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. More prevalent in the first trimester of pregnancy, morning sickness can affect your ability and desire to exercise. However, modifying the type and time of your exercise may help you stay active and relieve some of the symptoms connected with morning sickness.
Identification
Morning sickness is characterized by nausea, either with or without vomiting. Although the causes of morning sickness are unclear, hormonal changes and low blood sugar are suspected triggers, according to the Loma Linda University Medical Center. Other factors connected with morning sickness include fatigue, some foods and odors, stress and traveling. MayoClinic.com emphasizes that rushed activity can also trigger nausea, which may interfere with your attempts to exercise.
Prevention
You many not be able to avoid morning sickness altogether, but you can take steps to ease or reduce your symptoms. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advises you to get enough rest, steer clear of smells that trigger nausea, eat five to six smaller meals rather than three large meals, avoid foods that are spicy or high in fat and nibble on crackers first thing in the morning. An outdoor walk and fresh air can also help, according to MayoClinic.com.
Exercise Options
If you experience nausea at certain times of the day, you may be able to schedule exercise around your bouts of morning sickness. If you can find a way to increase your physical activity during pregnancy, this may help prevent or treat gestational diabetes, as well as relieve stress and help you sleep better. Walking and prenatal fitness classes are generally safe choices, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Precautions
Clear your exercise plans with your doctor before getting started. Exercise may not be appropriate for pregnant women with vaginal bleeding, high blood pressure or increased risk for early labor. Morning sickness alone is generally not dangerous, unless you are unable to keep any liquids down, you experience dizziness or fainting, vomiting becomes severe, you have blood in your vomit or your heart races. In any of these cases, call your doctor immediately, according to MayoClinic.com. Otherwise, an afternoon walk, weather and health permitting, can help you prepare for labor and stay fit during your pregnancy.
Considerations
Morning sickness tends to fade after the first trimester, although it can last throughout pregnancy. If you do experience a decrease in morning sickness as your term progresses, modify your exercise regimen per your doctor's recommendations. Avoid exercises that include jarring, bouncing or high-impact motions, as well as activities that put you at risk for falling.
References
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Morning Sickness
- Loma Linda University Medical Center: Morning sickness
- MayoClinic.com: Working during pregnancy: Do's and dont's
- MayoClinic.com: Morning sickness: Lifestyle and home remedies
- American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Exercise During Pregnancy
- MayoClinic.com: Morning sickness: Symptoms
