Pregnancy can be a vast range of emotions from excitement, anxiety, fear and deep satisfaction. You are probably experiencing some new unexpected emotions; some comforting and others unsettling.
Hormones play a big part on these emotions and are released throughout your pregnancy. These hormones do two things, they influence the growth of your baby and they send signals that change the way your own organs function. In fact, the hormonal change of pregnancy affect nearly every part of your body. The increase of these hormones can result in some unpleasant signs and symptoms. You might be experiencing nausea, vomiting, breast soreness, headaches, increased urination and insomnia.
Morning sickness; nausea and vomiting may be the most significant hormone related change you will experience in the first trimester of pregnancy. Up to 70 % of pregnant women are affected by morning sickness, nausea and vomiting. These uncomfortable problems typically begin between week 4 and week 8 of pregnancy and usually will subside by the end of the first trimester. Though called mornig sickness, it can affect pregnant women at any time of the day. If you are suffering from mornig sickness, nausea or vomiting there are a few things that can help you manage.
Acupuncture is known to help reduce nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness. It has become popular with motion sickness bands worn on the wrist which stimulate acupuncture point pericardium 6, that help with nausea and vomiting. There are other acupuncture points that can help being equilibrium, balance hormones and help with nausea and vomiting. Along with morning sickness acupuncture can help with other symptoms of pregnancy such as dizziness, headaches, lower back pain, hip pain and labour prep and pain management.
Other things to keep in mind with managing morning sickness
- Keep hydrated: water water water
- Try herbal teas: ginger, peppermint, chamomile
- Eat small portions regularly and keep it simple and bland foods
- Be weary of smells which can trigger nausea
If you are suffering with morning sickness and would like to book an acupuncture appointment please book online at KatSmyth.janeapp.com or call 604-671-8045 for more information.