Nausea and vomiting is a common sign of pregnancy.
The discomfort may occur at any time during the day, even though it is referred to as “morning sickness.” It seldom persists beyond the end of the third or fourth month (12 to 16 weeks).
Suggestions to help prevent and relieve nausea and vomiting include:
- Eat dry food before getting out of bed in the morning (crackers, popcorn, toast).
- Drink liquids between meals rather than with meals. Avoid extreme hot or cold beverages. Limit caffeine intake.
- Avoid fatty (greasy) and spicy foods and choose more bland foods.
- Increase intake of carbohydrates (fruits, vegetables, breads, pasta).
- Eat a protein snack before going to bed, such as toast with peanut butter, hard-boiled egg, or nuts/seeds.
- Avoid unpleasant food odors. Accept help with food preparation.
- Eat slowly and chew food well.
- Get adequate rest. Get out of bed slowly.
- Take your prenatal vitamins with food, at the time of the day when you are feeling the best.
- Use antacids during pregnancy only as directed on labels.
- Vitamin B6, 50 mg twice a day, may be helpful and is available without a prescription.
- Foods with ginger may settle the stomach (gingersnaps, ginger ale, ginger tea)
- Avoid letting your stomach become empty. Eat five or six small “meals” spread throughout the day.
- Use hard candy, mints, or chewing gum if you have an unpleasant taste in your mouth
Fluid intake is important to prevent dehydration. Sips of fruit juices or protein beverages will give added calories if needed. If you are unable to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours, notify your provider.
