We know the first trimester can be an exciting and joyful time, but let's be real—it can also come with a not-so-pleasant guest: morning sickness. For some this can manifest as a feeling of general nausea or wanting to throw up, but others may experience vomiting. Let's just say, the name "morning sickness" doesn't quite do it justice, because it can strike at any time of the day, often peaking first thing in the morning. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy is a common condition and usually settles by 12-14 weeks of pregnancy.

So, we're here to help you tackle those waves of nausea and keep your pregnancy on track with some tried-and-true nausea busters that every expecting mother should know. Let’s dive in!

First up, we have the magical Ginger! It’s long been hailed as a natural remedy for nausea and morning sickness in pregnancy. Whether you opt for ginger tea, ginger lozenges, or even ginger ale, this powerful root can provide relief by settling your stomach and easing that queasy feeling. Keep some ginger snacks, biscuits, or tea bags on hand to soothe your tummy whenever nausea strikes.

Now, let’s talk about your eating habits. Instead of three large meals, try dividing your meals into smaller, more frequent portions throughout the day. An empty stomach can often trigger nausea, so grazing on healthy snacks like crackers or fruits can help keep your blood sugar stable and keep morning sickness at bay.

When your taste buds seem to be in rebellion, turn to bland, easily digestible foods for some relief. Think plain rice, dry toast, or simple soups. Spicy, greasy, or heavily seasoned dishes might only make matters worse and exacerbate your symptoms. So, keep it simple and let your tummy find solace in the soothing comfort of milder flavours. Remember, simplicity can be your ally during this sensitive period. 

Try something different - acupressure. This practice involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body. For nausea relief, try the P6 pressure point, also known as the Nei Guan point - it is located on your inner wrist, three finger-widths below your palm. Try applying gentle pressure yourself, or wearing wristbands that target this area. It might just help alleviate those nasty symptoms.

Take a sip of refreshing peppermint tea to help relieve nausea. Peppermint has some amazing soothing properties that can ease an upset stomach. Opt for caffeine-free varieties and enjoy the calming effects as you let the tea work its magic on your queasiness.

Let’s talk Vitamin B6. Also known as pyridoxine, this powerhouse has been found to be effective in reducing nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy. This is often included in your prenatal multivitamin, but consult with your healthcare provider about incorporating a vitamin B6 supplement into your daily routine, as it may help ease your morning sickness symptoms.

Engaging in gentle exercise, such as walking, swimming or prenatal yoga, can work wonders in combating nausea. Moving your body promotes blood circulation, releases endorphins, and can even help distract your mind from discomfort. Just remember to listen to your body's signals and choose activities that feel comfortable and safe for you and your growing bump.

So, let’s address the importance of rest and staying hydrated… Amidst all the tips and tricks to relieve morning sickness, it's crucial not to overlook the significance of taking time to unwind and topping up your fluid intake. Pregnancy takes a toll on your body, and fatigue is a common symptom during the first trimester. Make sure to prioritise sufficient rest and quality sleep to support your incredible journey of creating life. Let’s not forget about hydration! It is vital for both your overall well-being and combatting nausea. Sip on water, herbal teas, or diluted fruit juices throughout the day to maintain proper hydration levels and support your body's needs.

Now, it's essential to shed light on a more serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG).  While most women experience some degree of morning sickness during pregnancy, it's important to be aware of this severe condition, taking ‘morning sickness’ to a whole new level. Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of this condition and can affect up to 1 to 3 in 100 pregnant women. HG involves excessive vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss, which can be detrimental to both the mother and the developing baby. If you find yourself unable to keep any food or fluids down, experiencing severe nausea, or feeling faint, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Your healthcare provider can provide the necessary treatment and support to manage HG and ensure the health and well-being of both you and your little one.

It’s important to note that if nausea and sickness is impacting your ability to function daily, and even if you are not diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum, you may be offered anti-sickness medicine for nausea/vomiting.

There you have it mama! Morning sickness can be quite the challenging aspect of early pregnancy. But, armed with the right knowledge, you can navigate the first trimester with a smile on your face. Incorporate these nausea busters into your daily routine, make time for rest, stay hydrated, and remember to reach out to your healthcare provider if symptoms become overwhelming. The first trimester may have its ups and downs, but it's all part of the incredible journey of bringing new life into the world. You've got this!