Tips to combat morning sickness

Just found out you’re pregnant? Congratulations! The beginning of pregnancy is a wonderful stage that’s full of changes, surprises and some uncertainty as well, especially if it’s your first time. Despite all the good things that come with that positive pregnancy test, you may also experience some of the downsides, like morning sickness.

We’re sure you’ve heard of it, but don’t worry, not all women get it and if you do, in most cases it usually disappears or decreases around week 12 of your pregnancy.

Why do some women get morning sickness? It’s not entirely understood, although there are different theories: pregnancy hormones, oestrogen, heightened sensitivity to smells and tastes, lack of vitamin B6. Whatever the cause, if you do get it, you need to deal with it to make you feel better during those first few weeks.

It’s most common in the morning, although some women also feel sick in the evening. Hunger, tiredness or excessive heat can make it worse.

What can we do about it?

Here are a few tricks that will help to prevent or reduce it:

•  Try to get up slowly, set the alarm clock a little earlier and enjoy a few minutes of relaxation before your day begins. You can even keep a bottle of water and a biscuit on hand for a little snack before you get up.
•  Drink lots of water. Always try to keep a bottle of water with you, preferably a glass bottle. Plastic tends to absorb smells, which pregnant women quickly pick up on. You can add a few drops of lemon. Lots of mums-to-be find that this works well for them and relieves the sickness.
• Avoid eating large meals. It’s better to eat little and often. You’ll feel better if you don’t get too full.
• Always keep a snack on hand. Having a bite every now and then will stop you feeling empty and help you feel better: biscuits, crackers and nuts are all good options.
• Avoid eating rich, fried or fatty food. Keep to fresh food and grilled meat and fish, as they will be easier to digest.
• Ginger helps prevent morning sickness. You can eat it in biscuits, as an infusion or fresh.
• Don’t lie down straight after eating, as this will slow down your digestion.

If the sickness stops you leading a normal life, there are other options:

• Medication: your gynaecologist will tell you what options will make you feel better.
• Acupuncture: many women swear by this alternative therapy, which has no side effects.
• Aromatherapy: filling the atmosphere with clean, citrussy scents can be beneficial for pregnant women. The most effective ones are lemon and mint.

And you? Did you suffer from morning sickness? What remedy worked best for you?