7 Ways to Ease Morning Sickness

A common ailment among pregnant women, morning sickness is usually limited to the first trimester, though some women experience it throughout pregnancy. Nausea affects most pregnant women, while vomiting affects up to about 1 in 3.

The exact cause of this queasiness isn't known, but researchers believe that increasing levels of hormones during pregnancy play a role.

If you're feeling queasy:

Increase the protein and complex carbohydrates in your diet. Crackers (to provide carbohydrates) and cheese or peanut butter (to provide protein) are an ideal combination. The cracker will raise your blood sugar quickly, and the cheese will keep your blood sugar level more even.

Try snacking lightly throughout the day, or grazing, rather than eating three big meals. An empty or overly full stomach is more prone to nausea than one with a little food in it.

Avoid spicy or acidic food.

Keep a box of saltine crackers on your bedside table if your nausea is bad first thing in the morning. Nibbling one just before getting out of bed may settle your stomach and allow you to eat a full breakfast later. Sometimes it helps to lie down for a few minutes after eating.

Drinking ginger ale or lemonade (or even sniffing ginger or lemons) can help ease nausea.

Ask your healthcare provider about taking vitamin B6, which can relieve both nausea and vomiting.

If you're vomiting due to morning sickness, keep in mind that vomit contains stomach acids that can weaken your teeth. Don't brush immediately after vomiting. Instead, rinse your mouth with a cup of water and a teaspoon of baking soda. Then wait about a half hour before brushing.

Do let your healthcare provider know if your nausea seems extreme or if it comes to a sudden halt. And keep your eyes on the calendar; most nausea stops by the end of the 12th week of pregnancy.

This message is not intended to provide individual medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have about your health or medical condition, your breastfeeding issues and your infant's health. Never disregard, avoid or delay contacting a doctor or other qualified professional because of something you have read in our emails, webpages or other electronic communications.