Nausea During Pregnancy

Nausea during pregnancy is often called "Morning Sickness". This term can be very deceptive because some women can have it at any time during the day. The most severe form of nausea and vomiting is called Hyperemesis Gravidarum.

Typically, the nausea can start around 4-6 weeks after conception and usually resolves on its own by the 16th week. Some women may have symptoms beyond the first trimester, and a few may have symptoms throughout their entire pregnancy.

What Can Be Done To Relieve The Nausea?

Here is a list of suggestions that I have found helpful.

Remember, each woman is an individual-what works for one may not work for another. Listen to your body and eat the kinds of foods that make you feel the best.

Suggestions for Diet:

• Do not skip breakfast

• Drink water, milk, and fruit juices between meals

• Eat very small amounts of food often,even if you aren't hungry. An empty stomach triggers nausea.

• Eat slowly and avoid foods that are spicy or high in fat. These can be difficult to digest.

• Do not overfill your stomach.

• Increase the fiber in your diet (fruits, salads, vegetables, and bran).

• Avoid coffee and products containing caffeine; it increases the stomach acid.

• Ginger snaps as well as peppermint sticks may soothe the nausea

Rest Is Important!

Your body requires more sleep in early pregnancy. Try to get plenty of sleep at night and a short nap during the day. Being tired often trigger nausea.

Inform Your Doctor if you: 1.You cannot keep any solid foods down for 24 hours 2.You cannot keep liquids down 3.You are running a temperature greater than 100.4

Nausea Will Usually Improve as Your Pregnancy Progresses

By 12-14 weeks, you should begin to notice more good days than bad. Generally, during the second trimester, most women report more energy and no nausea!