5 Ways to Manage Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is often the first indication you might be expecting. Although the pregnancy news may be joyful, the queasiness and vomiting may become overwhelming.

As an experienced OB/GYN, Derakhsh Fozouni, MD, has been counseling mothers-to-be on how to battle against morning sickness for years. Dr. Fozouni offers some tips to help quell your nausea and make it easier to enjoy every stage of your pregnancy.

Understanding morning sickness

Morning sickness typically involves persistent feelings of nausea that can develop at any time of day – and even last all day.

This common side effect of pregnancy often occurs because of increases in your estrogen and other hormone levels. You may also feel nauseous because of drops in your blood sugar or when exposed to certain strong smells.

Though many women notice their morning sickness symptoms disappearing on their own within the first three months, some may still struggle to cope with bouts of nausea well into their second trimester.

The 5 best ways to manage your morning sickness

To keep your stomach settled and prevent unnecessary nausea and vomiting, Dr. Fozouni recommends the following morning sickness management tips:

1. Watch what you eat

If you consume foods or drinks that increase your stomach acid production, you may be more prone to bouts of nausea. The most common acid triggers include spicy foods, caffeine, and fatty, fried foods.

In addition to what you eat, you need to pay attention to how much you eat. Decrease your portion sizes to fight off nausea. You also should never skip meals because an empty stomach may be more likely to cause queasiness.

Keep salted crackers handy to chew on when you aren’t feeling well, and make sure to get enough protein in your diet.

2. Stay hydrated

Maintaining good hydration is important for your health in general, but it’s especially important for fighting off morning sickness and dehydration during pregnancy.

When you aren’t feeling well enough to drink a glass of water, try eating ice chips to add needed water to your body until you feel better.

3. Recognize your triggers

Women often experience a heightening of their senses during pregnancy, especially their sense of smell. Notice what’s around you when you’re struck by sudden feelings of nausea, such as strong perfumes or foods, and try to avoid them as much as possible.

Take some time to step outside and take in some fresh air when the feelings strike. You may also need to substitute some products you use regularly around your house that may have a strong smell, such as soaps, cleaners, or air fresheners.

4. Protect yourself from eye strain

You may not realize that your time spent at the computer or even watching television can be contributing to your morning sickness symptoms.

The quick flicker of electronic screens may otherwise go unnoticed until you become more sensitive to it. You may need to reduce your screen time during your pregnancy if possible or add a special protector to your screens that reduce eye strain and your risk for nausea.

5. Be aware of supplement-induced nausea

If Dr. Fozouni recommends that you take vitamins or other supplements throughout your pregnancy, they may be related to the morning sickness you’re experiencing.

Some supplements need to be taken with food to prevent nausea. Even those that require only a glass of water may upset your stomach.

Discuss your options with Dr. Fozouni if you suspect supplements are playing a role in morning sickness. He can recommend which ones you can take before you go to bed or suggest additional vitamins, like B6, to reduce your nausea.

If you’re experiencing chronic morning sickness symptoms and need help, schedule a consultation at Dr. Fozouni & Associates using the online booking system or calling the office today.