Congratulations! You’re growing a tiny human! And as a reward, your body has gifted you with an all-day, no-refunds ticket to Nausea Land. Morning sickness (which, let’s be honest, happens at all hours) is a rite of passage for many moms-to-be. But fear not! This guide will help you understand why it happens, how to survive it, and when to call in the professionals.
Why Pregnancy Nausea Happens (AKA: The Science Behind the Suffering)
Pregnancy nausea is mostly caused by hormonal changes, particularly rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)—the hormone responsible for confirming you’re actually pregnant.
Other culprits include:
- Increased estrogen levels
- Heightened sense of smell (suddenly, your once-beloved coffee smells like an old gym sock)
- Slower digestion (thanks, progesterone!)
- Stress and fatigue (because growing a baby is exhausting!)
Over-the-Counter Solutions
For those who need a little extra help but aren’t quite ready to move to prescription meds, there are some safe, OTC options:
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) – Taking 10-25 mg three times a day has been shown to reduce nausea. Popular brands include Nature Made Vitamin B6.
- Unisom (Doxylamine Succinate) – Often paired with B6 for a nausea-fighting duo. Tip: Use the SleepTabs version, not SleepGels!
- Sea-Bands – Acupressure wristbands that press on a specific nausea-relieving point.
- Ginger Supplements – A natural anti-nausea remedy. Try NOW Ginger Root Capsules or Preggie Pop Drops for a tastier option.
Practical, Non-Medical Solutions
Sometimes, the best nausea remedies aren’t found in a pharmacy. Here are some practical hacks that might just save your sanity:
1. Eat Small, Frequent Meals
A stomach that’s too full or too empty can both trigger nausea. Try eating something light every 2-3 hours.
2. Keep Snacks by Your Bed
Before you even lift your head off the pillow, nibble on crackers, toast, or dry cereal. (Bonus points if you can get your partner to deliver them to you like royalty.)
3. Stay Hydrated (But Not Too Much at Once)
Sipping small amounts of cold water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks throughout the day can help. Just avoid chugging large amounts at once!
4. Avoid Triggers
If certain smells set you off, identify and avoid them like your life depends on it.
5. Fresh Air & Movement
A short walk, sitting near an open window, or just stepping outside can help settle your stomach.
6. Cold Foods Over Hot
Warm foods tend to have stronger smells. Stick to cold meals like yogurt, smoothies, or frozen grapes.
Prescription-Based Solutions
For cases where nausea is interfering with your ability to function (or eat anything other than plain crackers), prescription medications may be needed. You can talk to your doctor about whether your nausea has risen to the level of prescription based solutions.
1. Diclegis (Doxylamine + Vitamin B6)
A prescription version of the Unisom + B6 combo, but in a time-released formula.
2. Bonjesta
A stronger, extended-release version of Diclegis.
3. Zofran (Ondansetron)
This is a common nausea medication but typically used as a last resort due to possible constipation side effects.
4. Reglan (Metoclopramide)
Helps speed up digestion and reduce nausea.
When to Seek Medical Help
While nausea is an expected (though unwelcome) guest in early pregnancy, there are times when it’s serious enough to require medical intervention.
Call your doctor if you:
- Can’t keep food or liquids down for more than 24 hours.
- Lose more than 5% of your pre-pregnancy weight.
- Show signs of dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth).
- Experience severe vomiting multiple times per day.
This could be hyperemesis gravidarum—a severe form of pregnancy nausea that requires medical treatment.
You’ve Got This!
Pregnancy nausea is no joke, but remember—it’s usually a good sign that hormones are doing their job! Experiment with different solutions to find what works for you. Just remember to always discuss with your doctor what your pregnancy symptoms are and the interventions that work and even the ones that don’t. And if all else fails, just keep reminding yourself: This too shall pass… hopefully before the second trimester!
In the meantime, rest, hydrate, and let someone else handle the cooking. You deserve it!
