Let's Be Real Mamas - Morning Sickness

In my third trimester I am starting to relive my horrid experience of my first trimester morning sickness. I am much more prepared to deal with it now, so I wanted to share my tips & tricks to anyone it may help.

What is morning sickness?

Morning sickness, also known as nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP), occurs in pregnant women due to a combination of hormonal changes and various factors. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is thought to be influenced by:

Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, especially elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), can trigger nausea and vomiting.

Sensitivity to Odors and Food Aversions: Pregnant women often experience heightened sensitivity to certain smells and tastes, leading to nausea triggered by strong odors or food aversions.

Increased Stomach Acid: Hormonal changes may relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to increased stomach acid, which can cause nausea, particularly when the stomach is empty in the morning.

Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Rapid changes in blood sugar levels, influenced by the energy demands of the developing fetus, can lead to feelings of nausea.

Emotional and Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and emotional changes associated with pregnancy can also contribute to morning sickness.

Talking to some family & friends, here is what was recommended for myself & others:

Dietary adjustment

Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of consuming three large meals a day, opt for smaller, more frequent meals. This can help keep your blood sugar stable and prevent an empty stomach, which can trigger nausea.

Ginger: Ginger has anti-nausea properties and can be helpful in alleviating morning sickness. Try ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger capsules as supplements.

Hydration: Staying hydrated is important, but consider sipping on clear, cold fluids throughout the day to avoid the sensation of fullness that can come with drinking too much at once. Some women find that cold water with a slice of lemon or lime is refreshing and soothing.

Peppermint: Peppermint tea or candies can help relieve nausea for some individuals.

Ginger candies: https://amzn.to/3FyzMPe

My go to water bottle (Stanley knock off): https://amzn.to/3SeBDk6

Peppermint tea: https://amzn.to/3MfTIKw

Getting enough rest

Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Quality sleep is essential for your overall health, and it's even more critical during pregnancy.

Create a Comfortable Sleep Environment: Make your bedroom conducive to rest by keeping it dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using blackout curtains and a white noise machine to block out disturbances.

Take Short Naps: If you find it challenging to get a full night's sleep due to discomfort or frequent bathroom trips, consider taking short naps during the day to make up for lost rest. Keep these naps brief, ideally under 30 minutes, to avoid interfering with nighttime sleep.

Pregnancy pillow: https://amzn.to/3tIe3BL

White Noise Machine: https://amzn.to/46VD230

Consult your Healthcare Provider

Personally, my morning sickness was so intense I need to take medication daily to ensure I am able to keep food down & myself nourished. This is different for everyone.