Treat morning sickness naturally

(ARA) - For many women learning they're pregnant, shortly after the surprise and joy settle in, so does the morning sickness.

Morning sickness is very common - up to 80 percent of women report this symptom, which is believed to be caused by increased levels of the human chorionic gonadotropin hormone and increased estrogen levels. For some women, morning sickness is more than a nuisance. Frequent nausea and vomiting can cause dehydration and interfere with weight gain needed to keep the fetus healthy.

Taking medicine to combat nausea isn't an option for many pregnant women who don't want to take drugs that could affect the pregnancy or harm the baby. Which leaves them suffering, or looking for alternatives or complementary remedies.

One option is to try ginger, which has been used for thousands of years to combat nausea. As a natural herb, ginger soothes the discomfort, and can be ingested as fresh, dried, or from a steam dilution of the oils in the roots. One popular form is to try Sea-Band Anti-nausea Ginger Gum, which helps to increase the production of saliva. Saliva is the body's natural defense against nausea.

Another option that does not include ingesting anything is to put pressure on specific wrist points to relieve nausea. Acupressure - when used correctly - was found to help 60 percent of women suffering from morning sickness have less nausea and vomiting after a two week period, as reported in the Journal of Reproductive Medicine in 2002. The study group used wristbands to stimulate the Pericardium acupoint on the wrist.

To accurately use wristbands like the Food and Drug Administration-approved Sea-Band, line the middle three fingers on one hand over the inside of your other arm's wrist. Have your fourth (or ring) finger rest just below the top wrist crease of your hand. Position the wristband where your index (or pointer) finger rests. Repeat the process on your other wrist. Sea-Band is available in all drugstores. To learn more, visit www.sea-band.com.

This process causes the nervous system to release chemicals that help trigger the body's natural healing abilities. Acupressure does not require a prescription and can be handled by the mom-to-be while she's at home, in the office or running errands around town.

The joy and awe of pregnancy don't need to be overshadowed with nausea and vomiting, nor do women need to suffer because they don't wish to take medications. Instead, enjoy the pregnancy and look forward to the future your little baby will bring to your family.

Courtesy of ARAcontent