5 Ways to Cope With Morning Sickness

Published on 9/15/2021 at 12:30 PM

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As anyone who's experienced it will tell you, the term "morning sickness" is a complete and total falsehood. Nausea during pregnancy can strike at any time, day or night, and impacts more than 50 percent of pregnant women, according to the American Pregnancy Association. It typically begins around the second month of pregnancy, and is (thankfully) usually over by the second trimester. While there's no definitive cause of morning sickness, it's generally attributed to increased hormone levels, the sharper sense of smell that comes along with pregnancy, and/or heartburn and reflux.

Here are a few at-home tactics to prevent and treat the discomfort. Note: If your symptoms are severe or constant, let your doctor know. It could be a more extreme case of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum).

Drink Plenty of Water

While it's a smart idea to stay hydrated throughout pregnancy for myriad reasons, the benefit of easing morning sickness symptoms is especially appealing. Sip plenty of water or other noncaffeinated beverages (ginger ale can be particularly soothing) all day long.

Eat Smaller Meals Throughout the Day

Snacking throughout the day rather than waiting to eat larger meals at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, can be easier on a pregnant woman's digestive system. Some pregnant women even swear by a few Saltines before getting out of bed in the morning, since an empty stomach can contribute to nausea.

Just Add Ginger

Ginger offers some seriously great health benefits, including easing nausea. Incorporate ginger into your smoothie, try lozenges, or sip a cup of ginger tea.

Get Outside

Like so many things in life, fresh air can help to make morning sickness better. Step outside, crack open a window, do whatever you can to take a break from recycled, stale air, which can be stifling.

Time Your Vitamins Correctly

If your prenatal vitamins are contributing to the nausea, make sure you're taking them along with a small meal, or just before you go to bed versus on an empty stomach.