How to deal with morning sickness during pregnancy NZ

Morning sickness is a common occurrence experienced by many women during pregnancy. It is characterised by nausea and vomiting, which usually occur during the first trimester, but can persist throughout pregnancy. While it is not harmful to the baby or the mother, it can be very uncomfortable and disrupt daily routines. This article will discuss what causes morning sickness, cures, and what can help.

What causes morning sickness?

The exact cause of morning sickness is not known, but it is thought to be related to the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Specifically, the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen levels increase, which can affect the digestive system and cause nausea and vomiting.

Other factors that may contribute to morning sickness include:

• Low blood sugar: Fasting overnight can cause a drop in blood sugar levels, which can trigger nausea.
• Smells: Strong or unpleasant odours can trigger nausea.
• Stress: High levels of stress can make nausea worse.

Morning sickness cures:

There are several remedies that may help alleviate morning sickness symptoms. Here are some of the most effective morning sickness cures:

1. Ginger:

Ginger is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat nausea and vomiting. It is believed to work by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for triggering inflammation and nausea. Ginger can be consumed in various forms, including ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger supplements.

2. Vitamin B6:

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that has been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting in pregnant women. It can be found in foods such as bananas, avocados, nuts, and whole grains, or taken as a supplement.

3. Acupressure:

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. Some studies have shown that acupressure on the wrist can reduce morning sickness symptoms.

4. Hydration:

Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, but it can also help alleviate morning sickness symptoms. Drinking plenty of water, or consuming fluids with electrolytes, can help prevent dehydration and reduce nausea.

5. Eating small, frequent meals:

Eating small, frequent meals can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent nausea. Eating a large meal can cause the stomach to stretch, which can trigger nausea.

6. Avoiding triggers:

Avoiding triggers, such as strong odours or stressful situations, can help prevent morning sickness symptoms from occurring. Identifying triggers and avoiding them can help alleviate symptoms.

What can help?

There are several things that can help alleviate morning sickness symptoms. Here are some tips to help you feel better:

• Get plenty of rest: Getting enough rest can help reduce stress levels and prevent fatigue, which can worsen nausea.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing or meditation can help reduce stress levels and alleviate morning sickness symptoms.
• Wear loose clothing: Wearing loose-fitting clothing can help prevent nausea by reducing pressure on the stomach.
• Avoid spicy or greasy foods: Spicy or greasy foods can worsen morning sickness symptoms. Eating bland foods can help alleviate symptoms.
• Talk to your doctor: If morning sickness is severe or persistent, talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe medication or recommend additional remedies.
• Try and have a cup of tea and a plain biscuit or slice of toast before getting out of bed in the morning. Having an empty stomach can bring on nausea. 

In conclusion, morning sickness is a common occurrence during pregnancy. While it can be uncomfortable, there are several morning sickness cures and remedies that can help alleviate symptoms. Ginger, Vitamin B6, acupressure, hydration, eating small, frequent meals, and avoiding triggers can all help alleviate morning sickness symptoms. By following these tips, women can manage morning sickness and have a more comfortable pregnancy.