During pregnancy, some of us will experience horrible morning sickness and despite the name, struggle with it all day and night!

This not only affects your mental health dramatically but your day-to-day life as well.

If you’re currently unwell or planning a pregnancy, save this blog! It might save you a lot of research down the track.

Before we start, please note that this blog is based on my personal experience only. For medical advice, please see a healthcare professional.

So what causes morning sickness?

The exact cause of morning sickness is still unknown, however, it is thought to be associated with hormonal changes, blood pressure fluctuations, and metabolism.

Some women are lucky and have no symptoms at all. Others may have symptoms from week 6 through to week 14 (give or take). Then there are the very unfortunate, who are diagnosed with HD (hyperemesis gravidarum). Every pregnancy is different.

Managing the symptoms.

There are so many things that you can try at home to help relieve the symptoms of morning sickness. The points below, are some methods that I found to be very beneficial:

• Consume small, frequent meals/snacks throughout the day (every hour). An empty stomach triggers nausea.
• Keep snacks at your bedside for night wakings and eat at least 30 minutes before you get up. Dry cereal is great (like Milo or Nutri-Grain). Both have sugar, vitamins, and minerals
• Keep lollies close by. Life savers and Mentos are perfect. Low blood sugar levels can worsen symptoms
• If you’re struggling with normal food, try the BRAT diet. This consists of bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast
• Salty crackers and ginger nut biscuits
• Stay hydrated – cold/drinks/icy poles are much easier to stomach. Dehydration can increase nausea and contribute to headaches.
• Elevate slightly and don’t lay down flat
• Essential oils! Your sense of smell will be heightened so many things you used to love, may now create an aversion. I loved my ‘Wellness Stick‘ from Madre Australia
• Eat what you’re craving
• Sleep as much as possible. Fatigue will worsen symptoms too
• Avoid fatty and highly acidic foods, especially those that are tomato-based 

What if I try everything and still feel like rubbish?

You should seek medical advice!

There are vitamins (specifically b12) and medications available that may help you feel more human again.

It’s really important to do what works for you and what you’re most comfortable with.

For me, I followed all of the dot points above, took Ondansetron (medication) when I was at my worst, and daily I-folic by Blackmores. This was the only way I could manage.

I hope you find something in here that makes you feel better so that you can embrace and somewhat enjoy pregnancy a little bit more.

I know it’s hard but keep in mind that it won’t last forever.

Sending all my love.

Jodi x

If you’d like to share your experience or notice that I’ve missed something, please feel free to comment below!

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