Pregnancy is a wonderful time for mothers, but it can come with its own set of challenges, among which is morning sickness or nausea.

Nausea is a common hurdle that women face during early pregnancy and although ginger cookies and other home remedies sometimes work, severe and constant nausea can be a real problem, leaving women feeling fatigued and depleted, and even at risk for dehydration and malnutrition. Today we’ll discuss some tips to help mothers in fighting nausea during pregnancy.

What causes nausea during pregnancy?

The exact cause of nausea during pregnancy is unknown, however, many theories suggest that it may be caused by hormonal changes and the physical changes in the body.

In particular, pregnancy hormones such as human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), estrogen, and progesterone contribute to the queasiness. These hormones are produced by the placenta, which nourishes the fetus, and allow it to grow. Additionally, changes to the digestive system such as slower digestion and relaxation of the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract may also lead to nausea.

1. Change your eating patterns

Having small, frequent meals instead of large meals can help women in fighting nausea during pregnancy.

Keeping nuts, crackers, and dry cereal within reach and having them every few hours can help to stabilize blood sugar levels, which can reduce nausea. Consuming protein-rich foods, such as cheese or yoghurt, before going to bed or first thing in the morning can also provide relief.

2. Hydration is key

Drinking water frequently throughout the day can reduce the risk of dehydration, which is common for women suffering from nausea.

Dehydration can cause additional nausea, and it is important to stay hydrated, which can help in fighting nausea during pregnancy.

3. Take your prenatal vitamins at night

Many women take prenatal vitamins, which contain iron and other vitamins essential for the baby’s development. However, the minerals can often cause nausea.

Taking the vitamins just before bed can prevent the nausea and also ensure that the vitamins and minerals are absorbed in the body while sleeping.

4. Avoid strong smells

Strong smells can trigger nausea, so it is recommended for women to avoid strong smells in their day-to-day routine. This can include strong-smelling perfumes, cleaning agents, or cooking foods with strong aromas.

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Additionally, keeping windows open or using a fan while cooking can also help to reduce nausea.

5. Ginger can help

Ginger has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with nausea. It is often used as a natural remedy to help fight morning sickness.

Drinking a ginger tea or taking ginger supplements can help alleviate some of the symptoms of nausea.

6. Stay rested

Fatigue can contribute to nausea, so it is important for pregnant women to rest, sleep, or nap whenever tiredness strikes. Lying down or taking a warm bath can also provide relief.

7. Try acupressure

Acupressure is the practice of applying pressure to specific parts of the body. In pregnancy, pressing the P6 point on the inner wrist can help alleviate nausea. Additionally, some women find relief through acupuncture.

8. Talk to your doctor

If the nausea is severe and is interfering with daily routine, it is important to talk to your doctor about medication.

While some women may prefer to avoid medication during their pregnancy, in some cases, prescription medication is the best option to bring down the nausea symptoms.

9. Keep a positive attitude

Lastly, having a positive mindset can also help. Keeping a positive attitude and reminding oneself that nausea is temporary and a normal part of pregnancy can provide a mental relief, which can suppress the symptoms of nausea.

Conclusion

Nausea during pregnancy can be a challenging and at times overwhelming experience.

However, by following some simple tips such as having frequent small meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding strong smells, women can alleviate the symptoms and enjoy this special time. Ginger, acupressure, and medication prescribed by a doctor can also be effective measures in fighting nausea during pregnancy.