Pregnancy and Nausea: 7 Tips to Find Relief

Nausea during pregnancy is a common occurrence. We have seven tips to help you feel better.

While pregnancy can be a profound and rewarding experience, it comes with many challenges. One of the most common symptoms experienced during pregnancy is nausea. Nausea during pregnancy is often referred to as morning sickness, but it can occur at any time of the day. While it is not harmful to the baby, it can be uncomfortable for the mother. Here are seven tips to alleviate nausea during pregnancy so you can focus on preparing for the big day when you bring your baby home. 

1. Eat Small, Frequent Meals

One of the most effective ways to alleviate nausea during pregnancy is to eat small, frequent meals. Instead of having three large meals a day, try to have six smaller meals. This will help to keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent nausea.

When choosing what to eat, try to focus on foods that are easy to digest. Avoid greasy or spicy foods, as they can make nausea worse. Instead, choose foods that are high in protein and complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain bread, lean meat, and vegetables.

1. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can make nausea worse, so it’s important to stay hydrated during pregnancy. Drinking water throughout the day can help to keep you hydrated and may alleviate nausea.

If you find it difficult to drink plain water, try adding some flavor to it. Add a slice of lemon, lime or cucumber to your water to make it more enjoyable to drink.

1. Avoid Strong Smells

Pregnancy may cause hyperosmia, an overwhelming sensitivity to smells. Typically, it only lasts through the first trimester. 

If you find that certain smells make you feel nauseous, try to avoid them. If you need to be in an environment with smells you can’t avoid, you may try wearing a mask, using mints or gum, or essential oils to help mask any strong smells.

1. Get Plenty of Rest

Fatigue can make nausea worse, so it’s important to get plenty of rest during pregnancy. Try to get at least eight hours of sleep each night, and take naps during the day if you need to.

If you find it difficult to sleep, try using relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation. You could also try using a pregnancy pillow to help you get comfortable.

1. Try Acupressure

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body. It has been shown to alleviate nausea in some women during pregnancy.

One acupressure point that is often used to alleviate nausea is the P6 point, which is located on the inside of the wrist. You can stimulate this point by applying pressure with your thumb and massaging in a circular motion.

1. Ginger

Ginger is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to alleviate nausea. It is safe to use during pregnancy and has been shown to be effective in reducing nausea.

You could try drinking ginger tea, chewing on ginger candy, or taking ginger supplements to help alleviate nausea. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplements during pregnancy.

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

If your nausea is severe or persistent, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider. They may be able to prescribe medication to help alleviate nausea.

It’s important to note that not all medications are safe to use during pregnancy, so talk to your healthcare provider before taking any medication.

Conclusion

Nausea during pregnancy is a common symptom. By eating small, frequent meals, staying hydrated, avoiding strong smells, getting plenty of rest, trying acupressure, considering ginger, and talking to your healthcare provider, you may be able to alleviate nausea during pregnancy. Remember, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying any new remedies or medications during pregnancy.

Contact us today if you’re pregnant, or considering pregnancy, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have. 

Women's Integrated Healthcare