From Pickles to Popsicles: Morning Sickness Explained

Are you experiencing morning sickness? How about afternoon / evening / all day sickness? You are absolutely not alone. Many people experience this in the first trimester, and the good news is that for most, it will go away by the beginning of the second trimester. 

First off, let's talk symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and sensitivity to smells can all be part of the package deal. Foods you used to enjoy may find you running for the bathroom. But don't worry if you're not experiencing all of these symptoms – each pregnancy is unique, and what you feel is normal for you.

So, what causes morning sickness? Hormones, hormones, hormones! Yep, those pesky hormones are to blame for making you feel like you've just set sail on the Titanic. 

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty – how can you manage morning sickness? The key is to listen to your body and try out different remedies until you find what works for you. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Not allowing your stomach to get completely empty is key. Eat small, frequent meals rather than 3 large ones, to keep your blood sugar levels stable and avoid nausea-inducing hunger pains.
• Keep snacks such as dry crackers by your bed to nibble on when you first wake up. You'll probably want to have some with you during the day too. 
• Stay hydrated by sipping on water, clear broth, or other clear fluids throughout the day.
• Avoid triggers like strong smells, spicy or fatty foods, and foods with strong flavors or textures.
• Take breaks and rest when you need to – growing a human is hard work!
• Talk to your healthcare provider about medication if you're having severe symptoms.

Let's not forget about the fun stuff – ginger, acupressure, peppermint gum and even popsicles can all help alleviate nausea and vomiting. So, feel free to experiment and try out new things until you find what works best for you.

And finally, this one may surprise you. Sniffing on an antiseptic wipe (like the kind used for first aid or on an airplane), has been shown to help with nausea. In fact, nurses may offer you one to smell if you're feeling nauseous in labor.

So, there you have it, just remember to take it one day at a time and don't be afraid to try out new remedies and to talk to your doctor or midwife if things don't improve.