Morning Sickness:

Natural Approaches to an Age Old Pregnancy Concern

Almost everybody I meet within our clinic that is pregnant or trying to get pregnant seems to assume that with pregnancy comes at the very least nausea, and often vomiting as well. They also seem to assume that this will occur in the mornings of their first trimester, and then stop after the 12th week has passed. Sometimes, women are surprised when they don't experience any nausea or vomiting at all, and sometimes the nausea and vomiting are unremitting, lasting longer than the first trimester and are reason for concern. This last scenario is known as "hyperemesis gravidarum."

We know that nausea and vomiting of pregnancy occurs in about 50-80% of pregnancies, and that most women (more than 70%) report that the nausea lasts all day - but what causes morning sickness? It is believed that rapidly increasing estrogen levels are often the culprit, but other conditions, such as gall stones or gallbladder disease, or a thyroid condition can be to blame in some circumstances, as can certain nutritional deficiencies.

Treatment options for morning sickness are varied, and each woman should consider any of the following.

Conventional medical treatments include the use of the drug diclectin – an H1 histamine antagonist, combined with a B vitamin, which helps by working on the emetic centres of the central nervous system (brain). It is considered very safe for use in pregnancy.

Naturopathic treatments are tailored o each woman's particular concerns, avoids the use of medication, and may include one or more of the following:

1. acupuncture and acupressure to balance qi, and optimize energy, and digestion – this can include the use of "seabands" on P6 – an acupuncture point shown to reduce nausea when stimulated;

2. nutritional counseling to help our patients regulate blood sugar levels and minimize trigger foods and drinks – often eating small, regular meals with balanced starches and protein can make a large difference;

3. herbs and botanical medicine such as ginger, lemon balm, peppermint or chamomile, to minimize nausea and enhance digestion;

4. homeopathic medicine to address the cause of the nausea and bring safe, effective relief- favourites of mine include ipeca and sepia.

Naturopathic interventions are safe, but it should be noted that women who are pregnant should consult with their ND or pharmacist before taking any herbs or supplements, as they may not be safe in some situations.

The goals of the treatments for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy are improved quality of life for pregnant women, and maintenance of nutrient status during pregnancy – there are very few women who are unlucky enough to not respond well to the treatments listed above. In a situation where you are unable to stay hydrated and well nourished, your midwife or obstetrician will recommend a hospital visit to receive IV fluids, and perhaps some nutrients as well.

If you are pregnant, and experience "morning sickness," I encourage you to speak with your Naturopathic Doctor, to see which treatment options are best suited to you. Your body is very wise, and will tell you what it needs ..... including rest and rehydration, to keep your internal environment a safe and nurturing one for your baby!