Pregnancy can be an enchanting time for many women. However, some experience morning sickness, which can be exhausting and uncomfortable. It’s most common in the first trimester, but can last throughout pregnancy. Below are do’s and don’ts of relieving morning sickness symptoms throughout your pregnancy. 

Do:

Hydrate with lemon water.

Water delivers nutrients to your baby, prevents urinary tract infections during pregnancy, helps you avoid constipation and hemorrhoids, and even alleviates swelling. A major symptom of morning sickness is nausea and vomiting, which strips the body of necessary fluids. To ensure you remain hydrated throughout your pregnancy, add a squirt of lemon or a slice of raw ginger for extra nausea-soothing power. 

Choose small meals over large ones.

While eating snacks in the morning can keep nausea at bay, overeating can make you feel worse. Instead of sitting down for a big meal, try snacking throughout the day. Vary your snacks as much as possible—incorporate fruits, vegetables, and protein—to ensure you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs.  

Don’t:

Allow symptoms to remain untreated.

It’s important that you get the nutrition you and your baby need, and nausea can make that difficult. If morning sickness makes it hard to eat or keep food down, or it lasts longer than a few weeks, talk to your doctor. They may prescribe an anti-nausea medication that will relieve your symptoms. Don’t try to wait for nausea to alleviate on its own and avoid any over-the-counter medications that have not been approved by your doctor.

Neglect your dental health.

Pregnant women are susceptible to tooth decay and gum inflammation, and vomiting can exacerbate these conditions as it damages tooth enamel. Spend extra time caring for your teeth by brushing and flossing diligently. Carry alcohol-free mouthwash with you so you can wash away excess acid that lingers on your teeth. If necessary, visit your dentist to clean your teeth thoroughly. 

Leah Marinelli, owner of Home Birth With Love in Suffern, NY, has been supporting women through pregnancy and childbirth for 16 years. She is a certified nurse midwife who is dedicated to bringing safe, comfortable home birth experiences to women who want options outside of the traditional medical environment. Her agency offers prenatal care, wellness exams, and postpartum assistance. Call (845) 641-5058 to talk about your birthing needs or visit the website to learn more about the services.