Amanda Wardle (www.mycalmbirth.com) is an independent midwife and specialist hypnobirthing / antenatal educator with over 35 years’ experience working in the NHS and privately. She has kindly pulled together her top tips for Mums-to-be.
Nausea and sickness in pregnancy, although a real nuisance actually affects around 75% of women and is caused not by the baby but by hormones produced by the placenta. These hormones are responsible for keeping your pregnancy going, some may say that this is a good sign!
It usually stops around 12-14 weeks but for some women can extend longer. If the vomiting becomes really severe then you may be suffering from Hyperemisis Gravidarum, which leads to dehydration and requires medical attention.
1. FLUIDS
It’s really important that you keep yourself well hydrated. Plain water is a great choice, sip small amounts frequently or suck an ice cube. Avoid all drinks with high caffeine content and you may find that fizzy drinks make you more nauseous. Myrtle & Maude’s organic ‘Support your tummy’ tea is a perfect natural alternative.
2. FOOD
Eating actually reduces nausea in 50% of women. Little and often is usually more acceptable than large meals! You may have found that some food odours increase your nausea especially when shopping and cooking, don’t be afraid to ask people for help at this time.
3.REST
Lots of women find that resting helps to reduce nausea. Don’t feel guilty if you need to rest more, its just your body saying slow down and look after yourself, you are growing another human being in there after all!
4.BRUSHING TEETH
This simple act causes many women to wretch as soon as the brush goes into their mouth. Switching from an adult size brush to a small Childs brush could temporarily be the answer to your problem.
5.ON THE GO
So you can’t stay indoors for 12 weeks - prepare for those ‘sicky’ moments. Prepare a ‘sick survival kit’, you will need a sick bag (fragrance free nappy sacks are a good choice), wet wipes, a bottle of water and a packet of mints - Myrtle & Maude Vitamin B6 Bon-bons
Pop a kit in your car and have one handy at work, that way you will never be caught out!
Here’s a really good support group
www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk
Have you found something which really works for your morning sickness? Let us know in the comments so we can share your ideas and help more mummies in the making!