Nausea or vomiting during pregnancy is
sometimes called morning sickness. It may occur at any time of the day. It
usually happens during the early months of pregnancy and goes away after the third month.
Some women never have morning sickness and others have it all the way through.
If you have this problem, you may want to try the following:
Get up slowly in the morning. Avoid sudden movements.
If you wake up at night hungry, have a snack.
Eat 5 to 6 small meals a day. Never go for long periods without food. Eat before you become really hungry.
Drink fluids, including soups, between meals.
When you feel nauseated between meals, drink small amounts of apple or grape juice. Or you may try eating dry crackers, peanut butter or cheese and crackers, bananas or high protein snacks.
Avoid greasy and fried foods.
Eat lightly seasoned foods.
When you cook, open windows or use the exhaust fan to get rid of odors; or plan meals that do not need to be cooked.
Be sure to have plenty of fresh air in the room when you sleep.
Do not take any medicine unless your health care provider tells you to do so. Remember, the problem of nausea usually get better with time.
Certain changes which take place in your body during pregnancy may make you constipated. Not getting enough exercise or enough fiber and liquids in your diet may also cause this problem. Breastfeeding women may also become constipated if they do not "drink to thirst" and include foods rich in fiber in their diets.
The Daily Food Guide in "Your Diet Before and After the Baby Comes" contains enough fluids and bulk to help avoid constipation. If you are still constipated, the following may help:
Eat more raw fruits and vegetables, including skins. Also try dried fruits, stewed prunes and apricots, or prune juice.
Use whole grain cereals and breads such as oatmeal, whole wheat bread, and brown rice. Try wheat germ on your cereal or have a bran muffin.
Drink more water. You should have six to eight glasses a day. A glass of warm water as soon as you get up may also help.
Drink more liquids. Include milk, fruit juices, and soups.
Eat meals at regular times.
Exercise regularly.
If constipation continues, talk to your doctor or health care provider. Do not take any over-the-counter drugs or home medications such as mineral oil.
Heartburn is sometimes a problem during the last months of pregnancy. As your baby grows, there is increased pressure on your stomach.
If you have heartburn, try the following:
Eat 5 to 6 meals a day.
Do not lie down right after you eat.
Limit fatty and fried foods.
Avoid spicy foods.
Wear clothes which are loose around your waist.
Over-the-counter drugs may be harmful to your baby. Never take a medication before talking to your doctor or health care provider.
If you have questions about nausea, constipation of heartburn, ask your health care provider or community health nurse. They have a sincere interest in the health of both you and your baby.
Uplinked 03/16/08