Morning Sickness - Relief Please!

Morning Sickness -

By Margaret Gaia

Ahhh morning sickness, the anticipation of feeling horrible during pregnancy.  When does it occur, what does it feel like, what actually happens to you? 

Morning sickness is defined as nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.  As a matter of fact, this is the medical term for “morning sickness”.    They can strike at any time, yet for most women they do ease up in the afternoon – however they are present all day.  Morning sickness typically affects about 75% of pregnant women during the first 90 days of pregnancy, which falls under the first trimester.   Typically about 50% of the women that experience morning sickness will feel some type of relief by week 14.  Although this is a common experience for pregnant women, it is important to note that it typically last only a few months – and it is a challenge to get over. 

What Causes Morning Sickness?

Answer:  No one really knows…how is that for comforting???

Some possible causes of morning sickness could include hormone imbalances, estrogen, enhanced senses such as smell and taste, and a stomach that is becoming more and more sensitive given your situation.  It has also been said that morning sickness is a woman’s abnormal response to additional stress. 

Will This Affect My Baby?

No, it should not affect your baby’s wellbeing.  More often times than not, you as the new mommy will not gain weight during the first months of pregnancy due to morning sickness.  This is generally not a problem as long as you stay hydrated and are able to keep down a balance diet.  If not, then prenatal vitamins become more important as a supplement to your loss during this time.  It is important to note that severe vomiting has been linked to preterm birth – so monitor your situation carefully and communicate with your doctor regularly.  

How Can You Get Relief?

Nothing that has been proven thru studies or data, however some relief strategies are as follows:

-          Eat small meals frequently

-          Keep snacks near bye such as crackers, which might help with the nausea

-          Avoid foods that might trigger your sickness

-          Stick to foods which are less spicy, and bland

-          Drink plenty of fluids between meals

-          Make sure to drink things that replace potassium and electrolytes

-          Give yourself plenty of rest, as nausea can take a lot of energy from you

-          Take vitamins

If you still can’t get any relief, and you can’t keep anything down, please do call your doctor or healthcare provider.  It is important that you take care of yourself during these first few months, as well as the entire pregnancy. Hydration and nutrients are crucial – so communicate with your doctor frequently.