Excess Saliva (Ptyalism)
Excessive saliva production, especially in first trimester, often accompanying morning sickness.
Medically reviewed by healthcare professionals | Last reviewed: March 2026
📅 When It Occurs
Most common in first trimester, usually resolves by week 14-16
📊 How Common
Less common than nausea, but affects some women severely
Overview
Some women experience excessive saliva production during pregnancy, a condition called ptyalism gravidarum. Your mouth may constantly feel full of saliva, and you may find yourself spitting frequently or swallowing constantly.
While not as well-known as morning sickness, excess saliva often accompanies nausea and can be just as bothersome. The exact cause isn't fully understood, but it's likely related to the same hormones that cause nausea.
Fortunately, this symptom usually improves after the first trimester along with morning sickness. In the meantime, managing the excess saliva can help reduce nausea and make you more comfortable.
📆 By Trimester
First Trimester
Most severe, often with morning sickness
Second Trimester
Usually improves significantly
Third Trimester
Rare to persist
🔍 What Causes It?
- •Pregnancy hormones affecting salivary glands
- •May be triggered by nausea (avoiding swallowing)
- •Increased awareness of normal saliva
- •Heartburn and acid reflux stimulating production
- •Connected to morning sickness hormones
💡 Relief Strategies
- ✓Chew sugar-free gum to swallow more frequently
- ✓Suck on sugar-free hard candy or mints
- ✓Brush teeth with minty toothpaste frequently
- ✓Use mouthwash regularly
- ✓Drink through a straw (encourages swallowing)
- ✓Spit into tissue or cup when needed
- ✓Eat small, frequent meals
- ✓Avoid starchy foods that worsen it
- ✓Stay hydrated
⚠️ When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- ⚠Excessive saliva causing severe distress
- ⚠Unable to swallow or causing choking
- ⚠Dehydration from not drinking enough
- ⚠Significant weight loss
- ⚠Interfering with daily activities
📅 Explore by Trimester
Learn how this symptom and others change throughout your pregnancy journey: