Being pregnant is a beautiful journey, but it often comes with its challenges. One such challenge is queasiness or morning sickness, which affects a significant number of expectant mothers.

According to studies, approximately 70-80% of pregnant women experience queasiness at some point during their pregnancy. Although queasiness is a common symptom, it can be uncomfortable and make daily life challenging. In this article, we will explore the causes of queasiness during pregnancy and offer effective tips for overcoming it.

The Causes of Queasiness During Pregnancy

Queasiness during pregnancy is primarily caused by the hormonal changes that occur in a woman’s body.

The surge in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, leading to queasiness and nausea.

1. Eat Small, Frequent Meals

When you’re pregnant, it’s crucial to listen to your body’s needs. One effective strategy for dealing with queasiness is to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day.

This helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevents your stomach from becoming empty, which can trigger nausea. Opt for easily digestible foods such as fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables. Avoid spicy, fatty, or greasy foods as they can aggravate queasiness.

2. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential during pregnancy, especially when dealing with queasiness. Sipping water, ginger ale, or herbal teas throughout the day can help prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate feelings of nausea.

If plain water is difficult to tolerate, try adding a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint to infuse flavor. Electrolyte-replenishing drinks or popsicles can also be helpful in replenishing nutrients and fluids.

3. Avoid Triggers

Every pregnant woman is unique, and certain smells, tastes, or sights may trigger queasiness. Identify your triggers and make an effort to avoid them. Common triggers include strong perfumes, certain foods with strong smells, and stuffy rooms.

If you’re sensitive to cooking smells, ask someone else to handle meal preparation or opt for cold meals that don’t require much cooking.

4. Ginger to the Rescue

Ginger has long been used to ease digestive discomfort, including queasiness and nausea. Consider incorporating ginger into your daily routine to help alleviate symptoms.

You can sip ginger tea, chew on ginger candies, or take ginger supplements – always ensuring to follow the recommended dosages. Ginger ale with real ginger content can also provide relief.

Related Article Dealing with Morning Sickness

5. Take Prenatal Vitamins with Food

While prenatal vitamins are essential during pregnancy, they can sometimes contribute to feelings of queasiness. To minimize their impact on your stomach, try taking prenatal vitamins with a meal or a snack.

This can help dilute any potential side effects and make them easier to tolerate.

6. Get Plenty of Rest

Rest is crucial during pregnancy, as it helps alleviate stress and fatigue which can worsen queasiness. Listen to your body’s cues and ensure you’re getting enough sleep each night.

Consider incorporating short breaks or naps into your daily routine to help recharge and combat any feelings of queasiness.

7. Minimize Stress

Stress and anxiety can exacerbate queasiness during pregnancy. Take steps to manage stress and find relaxation techniques that work for you.

This could include practices such as prenatal yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or indulging in activities that bring you joy, such as reading or listening to calming music.

8. Acupressure and Motion Sickness Bands

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. Several acupressure points are known to alleviate queasiness and nausea.

You can explore wristbands designed for motion sickness, which apply pressure to these points. These bands are safe to use during pregnancy and can provide relief for some expectant mothers.

9. Consult Your Doctor

If your queasiness is severe and interfering with your daily life, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider.

They can provide additional guidance and recommend suitable treatments such as anti-nausea medications that are safe for pregnant women. Your doctor can also assess if your queasiness is a symptom of a more serious condition, such as hyperemesis gravidarum.

10. Embrace Natural Remedies

There are several other natural remedies you can try to alleviate queasiness during pregnancy.

These include wearing loose-fitting clothing to minimize pressure on your stomach, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and trying relaxation techniques such as aromatherapy with soothing scents like lavender or peppermint.