Reply To Kathy

Dear Dr. Jason,

I'm into 6th week of my first pregnancy. I'm losing my appetite and this often cause gastric pain. I do drink liquid food but sometimes i still get gastric. May i know what should i eat and can i take actal when i have gastric pain? Thank you

Kathy

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Hi, Kathy,

You are suffering from morning sickness due to your pregnancy. During early stage of your pregnancy, your body hormone suddenly increased. This pregnancy hormone will lead to a few changes in your body :

1) Dizziness and vomiting, particularly during early morning when you wake up from sleep

2) Indigestion or commonly we know as " Stomach wind "

3) Breast distension and pain

4) White discharge from your private part.

The presence of these pregnancy symtoms indicates that your baby is fine and in good condition.

In an unhealthy pregnancy, the mother will not suffer from these symptoms due to lack of hormone production.

So, actually it is a good thing to happen, Kathy.

There are a few things you can do to reduce your suffering :

1) Take small and frequent meals. Avoid over-eating to reduce gastric distension.

2) Since your appetite is poor and you can't eat a lot, try to eat in small portion, but always choose high nutritious diet, eg: egg, formula milk, protein based food, fruits and veges

3) Go for liquid diet if you can't swallow solid food eg: porridge, glucose based drinks

4) Reduce oily and deep-fried food.

5) Avoid the food that leave a strong smell in your mouth, eg: belacan, spices. Rinse your mouth with water after eating.

If the problem is not improving after modifying your eating habit, you need to consult your doctor. The doctor will prescribe some medicines which are safe to take during pregnancy.

It is safe to take Actal during pregnancy.