Morning sickness is nausea throughout the pregnancy; this may occur at any time of day, not necessarily just in the morning. It can be associated with or without vomiting and usually occurs during the first 12-14 weeks of pregnancy but can persist in some. Symptoms can often be mild to debilitating in severity.
- The most important thing is to stay hydrated, keep fluids down. Try drinking smaller amounts at a time and if you are having associated vomiting try Pedialyte®, G2/Gatorade® or Powerade® that will help replace lost electrolytes and may be easier to keep down. You should still try to drink water as well.
- Small, frequent meals or snacks may help settle your stomach. Choose healthy, high protein, complex carbohydrate foods like peanut butter, string cheese, plain turkey or chicken, nuts and yogurt. These can be healthy and will keep you full longer. Try to avoid junk foods and foods that are high in simple sugars and carbohydrates.
Over-the-counter remedies you can try:
- Food/drinks with ginger, citrus or mint. For example, ginger ale, ginger tea and ginger candy. Several local baby stores have ginger infused candy/lollipops you can try.
- Vitamin B6; take 50mg three times a day
- Tums
- Unisom® or Dramamine®, although be careful as these can make you drowsy.
If you cannot hold anything down for 24 hours (including fluids) call our office or go to the Emergency Department for evaluation and treatment. There are some medications we can prescribe you early in pregnancy that may help. You may also need IV fluids or medications if you are dehydrated.