Nausea in Pregnancy
Nausea in pregnancy is one of the last things you want to contend with but, unfortunately, it is one of the most common side effects when you are expecting. Between 50-85% of women suffer from pregnancy nausea, more commonly known as morning sickness. Coming as it does, when you’re already quite emotional and tired, it can seem like an overpowering mountain to overcome.
If you’re one of the lucky few, you might never even experience nausea in pregnancy but for the rest of us who know what it’s like to have to rush to the bathroom at the most impromptu of moments; morning sickness can really bring you down.
The reasons for the nausea all seem to be a bit hazy but overall, it’s pretty safe to say that it happens because of the massive fluctuations of hormones your body has to deal with as a new life grows inside you. It is known that as soon as you get pregnant, there is an increased production of the hormone progesterone which relaxes the uterus and stops early labor – this could also be responsible for making you feel queasy and nauseous if the effects of the hormone extend to the stomach.
Most women experience sickness from around the middle of the second month to around the fourth month. It can go on longer to about the end of the fifth month and, for some, it can even last right through the pregnancy. This is nothing to worry about – just remember to stay hydrated which can be quite difficult if you’re being sick all the time. As well as this it is vital to get enough to eat both for you and your growing baby.
If you find you can’t keep anything down then it is best to consult your doctor just so he can check you over and make sure everything is O.K. In extreme cases, some women have a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum (which is just a fancy Latin name for extreme morning sickness) if you are experiencing this it is most important to get professional help so they can ensure you and the baby are getting enough fluids and nutrients.
Although you can’t prevent nausea in pregnancy in the first place, there are ways to reduce and sometimes stop completely those feelings which quite honestly just make you feel wretched. Most women prefer to use natural methods as they feel it will be better for themselves and the baby.
Always try to get enough sleep – this is important at any stage of your life but especially so during pregnancy. Without enough sleep, you feel more rundown and more likely to get morning sickness so, if you can, put your feet up and take little catnaps throughout the day: rest and relaxation is the way to go. Dry biscuits and crackers can also help and, of course, ginger which has always been famous for settling upset stomachs. There are now natural products on the market which incorporate these types of food such as lollipops, candies and herbal teas.
Another great natural method is acupressure, which may sound complicated but couldn’t be more simple. Wrist bands with specially positioned buttons put pressure on the inside of your wrist and over half of women who use them report feeling better within five or so minutes.
Not all remedies will work for everyone but, with experimentation, you’ll more than likely find a way that works for you and you’ll manage to get some relief from that inevitable nausea in pregnancy.
