This week’s guest blog post is written by Sarah from Morning Sickness Ireland. As a mum who suffered with morning sickness until 16 weeks pregnancy, I feel your pain! Sarah has some great tips and links for a fab support network below!

WHAT IS MORNING SICKNESS?

Morning Sickness or Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy (NVP) is extremely common. Along with tiredness, nausea and vomiting is prevalent in pregnant women typically for the first trimester (and sometimes throughout the pregnancy).

Some women will only experience nausea and no vomiting.
Some women will be excessively tired.
Some women be will lucky enough to escape all of these symptoms.

Morning Sickness is usually considered a minor inconvenience, however it can have an adverse effect on a pregnant woman's quality of life and day-to-day activities, like working and looking after other children.

TIPS TO EASE MORNING SICKNESS SYMPTOMS

Morning Sickness can usually be managed with dietary change, taking plenty of rest and support from family and friends.

Dietary Changes:

Sip fluids through a straw
Fizzy drinks or juices are sometimes easier to manage than plain water
Try foods with a high-water content e.g. Fruit, yoghurt, ice-cream/lollies, soup
Try plain foods e.g. bread, pasta, rice, potatoes
Eat small and frequent meals

WHAT CAN YOU DO FOR YOURSELF?

Take a nap whenever you can. Rest is crucial to your pregnant body and is even more important when you are facing morning sickness.
If you can manage it, talk a short walk. Fresh air is so good for you, especially if you have been spending long periods of time indoors.
Prepare your clothes the night before.
Shower and wash your hair in the evening, just in case you’re not able to do it in the morning.

ASK FOR HELP

If possible get someone else to manage cooking and cleaning. Your support system wants to help you. So ask them!
Sometimes in extreme cases, medical intervention is necessary. If you are in any doubt, or if your symptoms get very severe, always seek advice from a medical professional.

WHY SUPPORT IS IMPORTANT

Support is vital when you have morning sickness. Pregnancy is tough, but when you add morning sickness to the mix, it can be excruciating. Family and friends can be a great resource, but sometimes it is nice to be able to connect to other women who know exactly what you are going through.

Morning Sickness Ireland’s main Facebook page and Website promotes inspiration and support for those who suffer with morning sickness. Morning Sickness Ireland is there for you whether you suffer a little or a lot.

For those women who are facing morning sickness, but prefer to keep their pregnancy private, there is also a Private Support Group. Here women with morning sickness have a safe space to post questions or chat to other women with the same symptoms as them.

Morning Sickness Ireland is #here4you