Morning Sickness
Alleviating Nausea During Pregnancy
You just found out you're pregnant, you're happy, you're looking forward to discarding your diet and start "eating for two" and then "it" happens: morning sickness.
What is morning sickness? And if I have it all day long or just at night, is it the same thing? Morning sickness is a natural response for about two-thirds of all pregnant women. The surge in hormones your body makes to keep you pregnant is the most likely culprit. Morning sickness is actually a "good thing" (really!). It suggests your hormone levels (HCG) are high enough to sustain a pregnancy.
There are cases in which morning sickness can be dangerous. Women who experience severe vomiting and nausea, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, should be followed closely by their doctor. In severe cases of hyperemesis gravidarum, the dehydration may cause electrolyte imbalances, high ketone levels in your urine and other serious conditions.
So what are some solutions to alleviate morning sickness?
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Saltines are your friend! Keep them on your bed table, your car, your purse; everywhere.
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Avoid offensive odors. (onions, your younger children's diapers, garbage (time for dad to pitch in!))
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Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! I know you're in the bathroom a lot as it is, but water is important for so many reasons. If you get tired of water, a little ginger ale or club soda is helpful too.
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Acupressure/sea-sick bands.
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The safety of herbal remedies during the 1st trimester, when you're most likely to experience morning sickness, have not been studied enough. The herbs proven not to be harmful are red raspberry tea leaf, ginger root, lemon balm and chamomile.
