Morning sickness refers to the nausea and/or vomiting that pregnant women feel throughout the day and night. Approximately 75 percent of pregnant women suffer from the condition, according to the Babycenter website. While morning sickness usually passes by the end of the first trimester, some women experiences symptoms throughout pregnancy. It is important for a woman to stay in close contact with her doctor or midwife, because, very rarely, the condition can become quite serious.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a highly effective remedy for morning sickness. Debra Betts, RN, author of "The Essential Guide to Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth," notes three points that are particularly effective in treatment. Pericardium-6 (PC-6) is located in the middle of the tendons about 3 finger widths below the wrist on the inner arm. Kidney-27 (K-27) is located in the chest, about two thumb widths from the breast bone. Kidney-6 (K-6) is located just above the bone in the inside of the ankle. Thin needles are inserted into these points for approximately 20 minutes. Treatment may be ongoing. Sea bands are an alternative to acupuncture. Worn like a watch at the PC-6 point throughout the day and night, their light pressure may spell relief from nausea for some women.
Homeopathy, Aromatherapy and Herbs
Mothering recommends teas or tinctures made of chamomile, peppermint, spearmint, fennel, raspberry leaves and/or wild yam for treatment of morning sickness. Teas and tinctures may be taken throughout the day or as nausea arises. Essential oils of lavender or peppermint may also be inhaled for relief. Nux vomica is a homeopathic remedy often mentioned in the treatment of morning sickness, but a woman should only use under the supervision of a homeopath.
Stabilize Blood Sugar
There are theories that morning sickness is caused by low blood sugar. Woman suffering from morning sickness should try to eat small meals throughout the day to stabilize blood sugar. Protein is essential but often hard to stomach during the early stages of pregnancy. Banana bread made with yogurt and finely crushed walnuts is a good option, as are pancakes made with yogurt. Banana smoothies with protein powder may work as well. Women should look for bread made from sprouted grains and legumes because it contains complete protein.
Pharmaceuticals
A very small percentage of women experience a severe form of morning sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum. The excess vomiting leads to dehydration, weight loss, metabolic imbalances, and, ultimately, hospitalization. These mothers are treated with a pharmaceutical called Zofran, or ondansetron. Zofran is the same medication used to treat the nausea of cancer patients following radiation or chemotherapy.
