Morning Sickness Strategies
When Kate Middleton was hospitalized for hyperemesis gravidarum last year, it shined a bright spotlight on the severe bouts of morning sickness some women face. While most women struggle with nausea on some level, a small percentage have hyperemesis gravidarum or HG, which can cause severe vomiting, significant weight loss, tears in the stomach lining and esophagus, malnutrition, dehydration and more. Fortunately, most women cope with morning sickness without the need of medical help. While most morning sickness (which can be all-day or night sickness, too) subsides by the end of the first trimester, the following tips can help nausea:
• Saltines, graham crackers, ginger tea and simple foods can help calm an upset stomach. Bland works well for some expectant moms while sweet works for others – listen to your cravings and your body. While it’s always ideal to eat well when you can, during the first trimester, your body is focused on organ formation, which doesn’t require as many additional nutrients from you. Likewise, eating more small meals, rather than three large ones, works for some women.
• Steer clear of strong smells. Scents, including food, perfume or pretty much anything that’s powerful or pungent, can trigger nausea. Try to get some fresh air and avoid unpleasant scents as much as possible.
• While you might be tempted to do the opposite, try to increase your consumption of water or tea so you’re well-hydrated, which can reduce nausea and fatigue.
• Consider prenatal yoga. Gentle or prenatal yoga classes might help you reconnect to your body in a healthy way – just take it slow as you transition between poses.
• Remind yourself that morning sickness is simply a natural part of pregnancy and that this, too, shall pass.
