Many women suffer from nausea and vomiting during early pregnancy. Despite the name “Morning sickness” symptoms can arise during any part of the day or can linger all day and all night. Symptoms tend to be more obvious in the morning after waking up or anytime the stomach is empty. In Chinese, it’s called 孕吐 (Yun Tu) which means vomiting during pregnancy. Morning sickness symptoms include nausea, vomiting, food aversions, poor appetite, epigastric distension, craving sour foods, craving bland foods, acid reflux, depression to name a few.
Morning sickness most often appears during the first trimester of pregnancy. Most women see complete relief around 13-16 weeks pregnant. However, it can continue beyond the first trimester or even carry on until the baby is born for severe cases. The intensity and duration largely depend on the pre-pregnancy wellness of the patient.
Here are a few ways to help combat morning sickness
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is a great way to help take the edge off nausea or resolve completely some patients. Treatments will also help boost energy and get you out of any depressive slumps caused by morning sickness.In an acupuncture session at ilumina Healing Sanctuary, we will work to determine what kind of disharmony pattern you have by asking a series of questions about your nausea, food aversions, food cravings, emotional state, vomiting/reflux symptoms, feelings of hot or cold, headaches, dizziness, etc
Magnesium:
Magnesium deficiency can be a cause of morning sickness for pregnant women. It can also lead to cramping, restless leg, insomnia, headaches, and constipation. EarthlyGood Night Magnesium Lotion is a great way to boost magnesium levels without having to swallow or drink anything. There are many magnesium sprays on the market but they can cause itchy or irritated skin. Follow the instructions on the container for the dosage and application of any magnesium products. Reduce dosage if you notice loose stools.
Vitamin B6
A B6 (Pyridoxine) deficiency can be a cause of nausea during pregnancy. Add VitaminB6 to your supplement regimen to help manage morning or all day nausea. The dosage will be determined by any other supplements you are taking. Always reach out to your medical doctor or OBGYN before adding any new supplements during pregnancy.
Enjoy Ginger or Peppermint throughout the day:
I have found many patients will gravitate towards one or the other during pregnancy and sometimes have a complete aversion to one. If ginger sounds good ginger tea, fresh ginger tea or ginger chews can be consumed throughout the day. If peppermint seems more palatable enjoy peppermint tea or natural peppermint candies. Sipping tea will also keep you hydrated if plain water is hard to keep down or creates extra digestive discomfort.
Preggie Pops
If neither ginger nor peppermint sounds good to you try Preggie Pops. They have several different flavors to choose from in every box, are easy to find at big box stores or Amazon, and have B6 added.
Eat Small Meals
An empty stomach can trigger nausea first thing in the am or anytime during the day. I recommend the following steps to help prevent an empty stomach during this time
Bone Broth
Enjoy little sips of bone broth throughout the day to ease nausea. The addition will help keep you hydrated as well. Always buy from organic, grass feed, and pasture-raised sources.
Timing of Prenatal Vitamin
Play around with the timing of your prenatal vitamins and other supplements. If you’re taking in the AM try the Afternoon or Evening and see if that helps alleviate any discomfort throughout the day.
Stay Hydrated
For some women, nausea can pop up with dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.Incorporate this coconut water-electrolyte drink daily.
• Mix or shake to blend and enjoy
This drink combo is also great for staying hydrated during and after labor!
Congratulations! We look forward to seeing you in the clinic. Please let us know how we can support you during this beautiful time.
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