What is morning sickness and what causes it? The actual medical term is “nausea and vomiting of pregnancy” or sometimes “NVP”. While the definite causes of nausea and vomiting are unknown, most assume it’s due to all of the changes taking place in your body. During your first trimester your hormone levels will escalate, you might experience sensitivity to certain aromas and have a sensitive stomach.
Typically, symptoms of morning sickness will subside by week 14 according to the American Pregnancy Association (APA). Unfortunately for some, the 14 weeks could be a challenge due to lack of comfort.
Preventing Morning Sickness
Since the causes of morning sickness aren’t exactly determined, preventing morning sickness isn’t easy or guaranteed. If you have a history of migraines, motion sickness and/or a weak stomach, your chances of experiencing morning sickness during pregnancy could be greater. Luckily, there are simple steps you can practice and remedies that exist to help you find relief from morning sickness as you prepare for pregnancy.
Remedies and Relief for Morning Sickness
Not all women will experience morning sickness in the same way. And, even though not all remedies for morning sickness will help, you may find that some will provide relief throughout the day.
- New Wake-up Routine—Set your alarm a little earlier than normal. Give yourself a sufficient amount of time to wake up and slowly get out of bed. If you’re experiencing nausea as soon as you wake, it’s important to have that little extra time to relax. Also, keeping dry toast or crackers by your bed will help you quickly get something dry in your stomach to help suppress the nausea.
- Avoid Aromatic Foods—Stay away from food that you find bothers you because of the strong aroma it carries. Something to note is that typically food has a stronger scent when hot.
- Snacks and Meals—Keep little snacks with you to have throughout the day and don’t skip meals. Nausea tends to come into play more often on an empty stomach.
- Brush After Eating—Brush your teeth after eating. You never know what might cause you to feel nauseous as the days go on.
- Hydration is Important—Stay hydrated and drink fluids in between meals.
- Lemon and Ginger—Meals prepared with ginger and lemon have long been a helpful remedy when it comes to morning sickness. Try adding a thin slice of ginger or lemon to hot water or tea or have a glass of ginger ale.
- Your Prenatal Vitamins—Have a discussion with a medical professional to see if your prenatal vitamins could be a culprit in making you feel the effects of morning sickness.
If you are pregnant, we encourage you to speak with your obstetrician or family doctor.
If you are experiencing morning sickness and live in the area, call us and schedule an appointment with our family doctor or pediatrician in Monmouth County, NJ to learn more about how to plan for a healthy pregnancy and newborn care once you bring your baby home. We’d be happy to assist you.
Now you know about morning sickness, pass it on!