Morning Sickness Survival Tips

Congratulations, chances are if you are reading this you are currently in the throes of morning sickness, enjoying the result of a successful pregnancy test and a surge in your hCG levels.  An eight-week hangover, it is estimated that morning sickness affects around 80% of all women, with many women experiencing it so severe that it results in a condition called “hyperemesis gravidarum” which results in extreme vomiting and many women are hospitalized in order to avoid dehydration. So while you’re battling your enhanced sense of smell and sensitivity to odors, we’ve put together some of the more effective morning sickness remedies for you to try.

1.Nausea may increase if you are tired, so make sure you allow yourself time to relax and grab a nap whenever you can.

2.Try taking your prenatal vitamins with food or just before you go to bed. Vitamin B’s in particular vitamin B6 can reduce nausea so ensure your prenatal vitamin of choice includes the vitamins B’s. Many prenatal vitamins contain high levels of iron, a much needed mineral that can be harsh on the digestive system. Consult with your GP if you’re struggling to keep your prenatal vitamin down.

3.Try hypnosis, although there is no definitive evidence that it alleviates morning sickness, it has been shown to be highly effective in combating nausea during chemotherapy. Meditation may also be effective in helping you to relax.

4.Ginger, a natural remedy thought to settle and soothe the stomach and quell queasiness. Why not try ginger ale made with real ginger or grate some fresh ginger into hot water to make ginger tea. Some women find similar relief from sipping peppermint tea or from sucking peppermint sweets, particularly after eating.

5.Consider consulting with an acupuncturist who has specific experience of treating nausea during pregnancy.

6.Avoid fatty foods which take longer to digest, and keep away from spicy, acidic and fried foods which may irritate your digestive system. And try to eat food cold or at room temperature, as foods tend to give off a stronger aroma when it’s hot.

7.It’s vital you keep yourself hydrated, so drink fluids mostly between meals and try not to drink too much at one time so that your stomach feels full. Try sipping steadily throughout the day.

8.If you have been vomiting a lot make sure to replenish your electrolytes with fluids that contain glucose, salt and potassium.

9.Look out for non-food triggers, too. Whether it’s a warm or stuffy room, the aroma of heavy perfumes, the movement of a car ride, or visual stimuli such as flickering lights, they can all trigger nausea. Learning to recognize and then avoid your triggers can become an important part of your treatment.

10.Exercise can certainly help take your mind off of your nausea. If you are able get some fresh air, go for walk or open the windows it may certainly ease your nausea.

What if you can’t keep anything down?

If the nausea you are experiencing is so severe that you are unable to eat or keep anything down including water, juice, prenatal vitamins or medications you may be suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum. Consult with your doctor who will need to assess your condition and recommend action to ensure the health of you and your growing baby.