Common Discomforts of Pregnancy: Nausea & Vomiting

One of the most difficult parts of early pregnancy is the nausea and vomiting that occurs from increasing progesterone levels and a higher metabolism. The progesterone will support your pregnancy until your placenta is fully formed and takes over the job around 14 weeks. This is why you may feel better around this time. There are tips to help support your body - but it is also important to acknowledge these feelings are normal and healthy in pregnancy. (The exception is hyperemesis gravidarum - when weight loss and electrolyte imbalance is profound). 

Try this: 

• Small snacks about every 2-3 hours (protein is best). 

• Eat something/anything before getting out of bed in the morning.

• Keep hydrated (drink about 64oz or more a day).

• Ginger (the spicer the better), peppermint, or super sour candies

• Vitamin B6 25-50mg up to 4 times a day (available over-the-counter)

• Take your prenatal vitamin at night with a snack

When to notify your provider: 

• You can’t take your prenatal vitamin

• You are losing weight 

• You have symptoms of dehydration: Lightheadedness/dizziness, very weak feeling, abdominal cramping, very dark urine, haven’t peed in 8 hours.

• You would like to discuss medication options to treat your symptoms

Prayer: “Heavenly Father, Please help me to see this challenge as reassurance that my body is successfully growing your gift. Help me to be strong in this time of discomfort and unease. Allow me to see past my physical discomfort and find joy in this challenging and beautiful process.” 

Additional Resources: 

Mother to Baby: https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/nausea-vomiting-pregnancy-nvp/

ACNM Share with Women: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jmwh.12451

App for that: APGO WellMom Managing Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy (NVP) App

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