Battling Pregnancy Sickness: Ways to help Pregnancy Sickness

Pregnancy sickness, commonly known as morning sickness, although we often wonder why its called 'morning' sickness as pregnancy nausea can happen at any point in the day or night. Nausea can be a challenging aspect of pregnancy for many expectant mothers. While it typically improves as the pregnancy progresses (for some, 12 weeks, for others closer to 16-18 weeks, and unfortunately for some mums can last the entire pregnancy), finding relief during this time is crucial. In this blog post, we'll explore ways to help pregnancy sickness, practical tips to alleviate pregnancy sickness symptoms and highlight the support available in the UK to help you through this phase.

Tips to Alleviate Pregnancy Sickness Symptoms

• Eat small, frequent meals. Consuming small, frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent an empty stomach, which may trigger nausea. Opt for easily digestible foods such as crackers, plain toast, or ginger biscuits.

• Stay hydrated. Dehydration can worsen nausea. Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-rich beverages to stay hydrated. Experiment with temperature variations to find what works best for you.

• Ginger can be used as a natural remedy as it has been shown to alleviate nausea. Sip ginger tea, nibble on ginger candies or ginger snaps, or try ginger capsules (after consulting your healthcare provider) to help reduce queasiness. This may not work for everyone, however.

• Acupressure bands. Consider using acupressure bands, also known as wristbands or nausea bands, which apply gentle pressure to specific points on your wrist. These bands are available in most pharmacies and can be an effective non-medical intervention.

• Seek emotional support as pregnancy sickness can be emotionally challenging. Reach out to your partner, family, and friends for understanding and support. Sometimes, sharing your experience with others who have been through it can provide a sense of comfort and solidarity.

• If you are really struggling to cope and finding these methods are not helping, contact your GP or health care provider as they can assess your needs and potentially prescribe medications.

Support for Pregnancy Sickness in the UK

1. Maternity care providers - Your midwife or consultant is your first point of contact for support. They can offer guidance, reassurance, and, if necessary, prescribe medication to manage severe symptoms.

2. Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) support groups - Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a severe form of pregnancy sickness that requires specialized support. HG support groups, such as the Pregnancy Sickness Support (PSS) charity in the UK, provide information, resources, and a network of individuals who have experienced or are experiencing similar challenges.

3. Online communities - Joining online forums and communities dedicated to pregnancy and parenting can connect you with other expectant mothers who may be going through similar experiences. These platforms allow you to seek advice, share stories, and find comfort in knowing you're not alone.

4. National Health Service (NHS) resources - The NHS website offers valuable information on pregnancy sickness, including advice on managing symptoms, potential complications, and when to seek medical help. Consult their resources for reliable and up-to-date information.

5. Alternative therapies - Some complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and aromatherapy, may offer relief from pregnancy sickness symptoms. However, it's essential to consult a qualified practitioner experienced in treating pregnant women to ensure safety.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Trust your instincts, listen to your body, and don't hesitate to reach out for professional support when needed. With time and the right strategies, pregnancy sickness can become more manageable, allowing you to focus on the exciting journey of bringing new life into the world.

Have you checked out our Free Pregnancy Class offered at Beyond the Bump Hub, Leamington Spa? We explore common pregnancy signs and symptoms and the highs and lows of pregnancy.

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Blog post by: Beyond the Bump Warwickshire