I have been a victim of morning sickness, and it is an annoying part of pregnancy. In most people, it lasts only the first trimester or so, though it can go on throughout the entire pregnancy. Finding a safe way to combat it is imperative or you won't be able to live a normal life, and it could put the baby at risk.
There are things that you can do safely, though I recommend you discuss them with your OB before implementing them. That will help insure that neither you nor the child will be harmed.
1) Apples: Fresh, raw apples are best, though you might find some relief from applesauce, as well. I recommend eating both skin and flesh, but in this matter the flesh is the more important part. Choose an apple that doesn't have a lot of sourness to it, as the acids could be detrimental.
2) Crackers: Despite my ban on eating things that crumble in bed, the saltines my mother recommended actually did help. Eat them before you sit up, as for some reason the motion of that process can make your stomach roll even more. The crackers will absorb stomach acid and may boost sugar levels.
3) Eat Slowly: Growing up in a large family taught me to consume my meals quickly. It wasn't a lack of funding, but seven people can put a dent into any dining table, and when my brother was in his growing stage, he could handle it alone with one hand tied behind his back. I had to unlearn that during pregnancy. Eating slowly, carefully chewing and taking small bites are going to help you keep the food you consume in the right location.
4) Hydration: You need to consume more fluids during pregnancy, both to take care of the baby and to prevent sickness. If you are dehydrated, it could cause premature labor and other life threatening issues.
5) Lie on your Left Side: There is a special muscle, called a sphincter, that separates your esophagus from your stomach. Lying on your left side helps insure that this muscle prevents stomach contents from washing up into your esophagus.
6) Peppermint Tea: This is one to clear with your OB. Some approve, some don't. I've used it successfully, and no one I know of has had any problems with it, but it's best to be sure. One warning, if it's strong and the inevitable happens, it will burn your nose, throat and mouth. Eating saltines or a plain piece of bread could help.
There may come a point when you need medical intervention. If you are unable to keep anything down, if you become dehydrated or if it lasts past the first trimester, discuss it with your OB. He or she can make the determination about whether or not you would benefit from medications.
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