NAUSEA IN PREGNANCY

You wake up in the morning and it hits you in the stomach. "EVERYTHING SMELLS SO ODD!"

Your nose has developed a kind of superpower overnight. You suddenly perceive things that you had not even remotely perceived and smelled before. Just the smell or even the thought of milk, chicken or maybe even one of your favourite perfumes makes your stomach sink.

The famous and dreaded morning sickness is here.

If you're lucky, you'll be one of those pregnant women whose morning sickness only lasts a few weeks. Sometimes, however, it lasts for several months or even the entire pregnancy.

Although it's called "morning sickness," most women experience it in the evening or during the day as well. You may also have heartburn and indigestion at the same time.

It is said that nausea is mostly caused by the surge in pregnancy hormones such as HCG or estrogen. Nausea may also be worse in stressful situations, lack of sleep, eating certain foods, or moving (driving a car or flying).

The good news is that the nausea isn't permanent, and we promise you'll be feeling like a human again soon. The challenge is to get through the day as normally as possible and that's exactly what we want to help you with!

Here are some tips and stories that can brighten your day and fight morning sickness:

SALTED CRACKER BEFORE YOU LIFT YOUR HEAD IN THE MORNING
We're not sure if this works, but most moms we interviewed said it definitely helps a little. Eating a salty biscuit in bed before getting up.

Foods that may help relieve nausea include:
  • Lemon or lemon juice and ginger (e.g. ginger biscuits)
  • Foods high in vitamin B6 (bananas, avocado, sweet potatoes, watermelon, etc.)
  • or unprocessed and simple carbohydrates like oatmeal, potatoes, and dried toast.
  • Eating smaller portions more often can also help.

AVOID COOKING IF IT MAKES YOU FEEL WORSE.
Ask your partner, friends, or family to help you cook if you feel like doing it will make you more nauseous. Also, make sure you open all windows while cooking to avoid creating smoke or steam that could make you nauseous.

BREATHING EXERCISES, RELAXATION EXERCISES AND REST
This isn't a fact, but breathing exercises can help you focus and find a moment in the here and now without feeling sick and exhausted. They are a good way to come to terms with yourself. Being well-rested and stress-free is very important when dealing with nausea and fatigue.

WATER, WATER, AND MORE WATER
It is so important that you drink enough fluids. Aside from the nausea, water basically has so many benefits and is good for your body and mind. Tip: Get your own drinking bottle with a liter display so you know how much you've drunk during the day.