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Morning Sickness
Morning Sickness Explained

Morning Sickness, Pregnancy Sickness or Pregnancy Nausea and Vomiting?

Essentially these are all the same thing. Morning sickness is probably the most popular term used in everyday conversation, but Pregnancy Sickness or Pregnancy Nausea and Vomiting (PNV) are better descriptions since morning sickness is not always restricted to just the morning.

Morning Sickness is one of the most common medical conditions of early pregnancy, but the degree of nausea and vomiting can vary from woman to woman, so, it can be considered a ‘normal’ part of pregnancy (although it is not particularly enjoyable).

For many women morning sickness is one of the first signs that they are pregnant, and it can affect up to 80% of pregnant women. It is generally believed that morning sickness is caused by an increase of pregnancy hormones, preparing your body for the coming months.

Morning sickness and vomiting usually starts before the 9th week of pregnancy and in most cases the symptoms have gone by week 16. Not everyone is so lucky though, and for some women morning sickness and vomiting can continue throughout their pregnancy.

You may find that your sense of smell is far more sensitive during your pregnancy, and when you first wake up you might find that you are feeling queasy. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, headaches, tiredness and light-headedness. If you are tired, hungry, stressed or anxious the nausea could also be worse.

Some mums to be can get pregnancy sickness badly enough that they are unable to work, cannot cook, shop or even find it difficult to look after other children. It can affect your mood, and can even strain relationships. Support and help from your family and friends can make coping a lot easier, at this time when you should be feeling excited about your pregnancy. Although there are no ‘cures’ or ‘remedies’ for morning sickness and it is difficult to completely prevent morning sickness there are steps you can take to relieve your morning sickness and nausea – including wearing Sea-Bands!

What you can do to help yourself through your morning sickness?

Quite often your morning sickness or pregnancy sickness can form a daily pattern or routine, and you may find that at particular points during the day you can eat and drink without being sick. By keeping a diary you will be able to track when you feel better and when you feel worse.

You will obviously learn which foods and smells make you feel nauseous, and you may find that you need to alter your eating habits slightly. It can sometimes help if you have smaller snacks every few hours rather than three ‘main’ meals per day. ‘Grazing’ in this way can help to keep your blood sugar levels stable. It is also worth noting that an empty stomach can cause you to feel more nauseous.

Drinking little and often rather than large amounts may help to prevent vomiting, and will help to avoid dehydration during your pregnancy. In some people cold and sweet drinks can make them feel worse so find out what works for yourself.

Rest and sleep can be important in the early stages of your pregnancy. It is thought that being tired can sometimes trigger nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.

There is a fair amount of evidence to show that Ginger can be effective for relieving morning sickness. Ginger should be used with care and in moderation. It comes in many forms – Ginger tea (from peeled grated root), ginger syrups, or Sea-Bands own Ginger Gum for morning sickness and travel sickness.

Acupressure can also help to alleviate symptoms of morning sickness, and there are many clinical trials that show its effectiveness. Wearing Sea-Bands to apply pressure to the P6 point on your wrist can be worn on each wrist whenever you feel nauseous. Sea-Bands are comfortable, washable and discreet. Sea-Bands can be purchased from your local chemist/pharmacy, or if you prefer to purchase online now, you can use our shop to buy your Sea-Bands to relieve your morning sickness. Remember to follow our instructions carefully to position your
Sea-Bands correctly so that you get the full benefit. If you have any questions for us regarding the use or positioning of Sea-Bands, do ask us either by calling one of our offices.

What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?

Hyperemesis Gravidarum is the most severe form of pregnancy sickness, and only affects a small percentage of pregnant women. Hyperemesis Gravidarum is excessive sickness and vomiting during pregnancy, i.e. where the nausea and vomiting is prolonged throughout the day, and you may not be able to eat and drink without vomiting. Where for most women who suffer from morning sickness it tends to subside after the first trimester, hyperemesis gravidarum can continue futher into the pregnancy. If you suspect you are suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, you should consult with your doctor.