6 ways to help ease your partner’s morning sickness
I don't know how women do it. The struggle is real—and to be quite honest, awe-inspiring.
You’d think that a first pregnancy would be a fairly simple thing to conceal over the first few weeks of the 9-month odyssey. After all, there’s no baby bump in sight at week eight! How would anyone ever guess that there’s a blueberry-sized person inside any given pregnant woman, multiplying by 100 cells per minute?
Two words: morning sickness.
Or, as it should be named in some cases, forever sickness.
I don’t know how women do it. The struggle is real—and to be quite honest, awe-inspiring.
When your partner is dealing with morning sickness, it can be easy to feel kind of powerless. But the good news is that there are, in fact, a number of ways you can help your partner as she battles her morning sickness, and does the herculean work of growing a baby.
Parters, here are six ways you can help ease your partner’s morning sickness discomfort:
1. Appreciate what she’s going through and listen with an open heart
Let her know that although you may not be able to relate directly, you appreciate what she is going through. Tell her she’s amazing, listen to her vent and be her emotional crutch if she needs one.
2. Strategize
Google was invented for a reason. Search all of the potential remedies and see what you come up with.
For example, maybe she can eat something to settle her stomach before she gets out of bed in the morning. Present a morning buffet line of foods for her complete with saltines, celery and peanut butter, bread, bagels and more. Anticipate that a menu item that previously did the trick is deemed unworthy. (Don’t be discouraged! Keep trying different options.)
This is one of the most vital times outside of the delivery room when you, as the partner, can provide support during pregnancy—even if all you can do is rub her upset stomach or give her crushed ice, which really does help alleviate nausea.
3. Pack her snacks for the day
A care package of food for her morning commute can make her trip more bearable. It’s important for her to eat frequently throughout the day, so these snacks could be tremendously helpful.
She has a lot on her to-do list and is expending lots of energy trying not to puke in public. She’s taking one for the team in a BIG way—so anything you can do to be helpful, you should probably do.
4. Be empathetic
Understand that this is really hard for her. Continue to think of ways you can be helpful. Pay attention. And think about the way you respond to her when she vents about how gross she feels. Consider trying:
“I can see how uncomfortable you are, and I’m so sorry you don’t feel good.”
“Thank you for doing all this work for our baby.”
“I really appreciate you.”
5. Seek help from her medical provider
Let her know that it’s okay to seek medical help, and it doesn’t mean she is failing or weak.
And offer to accompany her to her appointment. If she’s super nauseas she’ll appreciate not needing to drive, plus having the extra emotional support is always an added value.
6. Be aware of how it’s helping you bond
The opportunity to step outside of your own needs and put your partner’s needs first will make your relationship stronger, and no doubt help prepare you for that glorious day when the new human she is working so singlehandedly to protect is finally out and about—and relying on you two for everything.
See if you can find the silver lining to the toughness of the situation—you will get through this, together.
Lifestyle and home remedies for morning sickness
If morning (and noon, and night) sickness has you feeling like you’re on a never-ending roller coaster, we’ve got some tried-and-true home remedies to help ease the queasies. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. But it’s worth giving these a shot, right? Let’s dive in.
1. Embrace the Bland: Start with the basics – bland, easy-to-digest foods. Think crackers, toast, or plain rice. These can be real stomach savers. Keep some by the bed and encourage your partner to nibble a few before getting up. Sometimes, a little something in the stomach can stave off a wave of nausea.
2. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can make morning sickness worse, so sip on fluids throughout the day. If large amounts of liquids turn your stomach, try ice chips, popsicles, or sipping slowly through a straw. Ginger ale or lemonade can also be soothing (plus, ginger and lemon are both natural nausea fighters!).
3. Ginger Love: Speaking of ginger, this root is famous for its nausea-reducing powers. Ginger tea, ginger chews, ginger biscuits – if it’s got ginger in it, it might just be your new best friend. Just make sure it’s made from real ginger, and not just flavored artificially.
4. Snack Smart: Eating small, frequent meals can help keep morning sickness at bay by preventing your stomach from becoming either too full or too empty. Pack your partner a variety of snacks to nibble on throughout the day. And hey, those snacks might just become your new late-night munchies, too!
5. Sour Power: For reasons that remain a mystery to many, sour flavors like lemon or pickle juice can help alleviate nausea for some women. Sucking on a lemon slice or sipping a bit of lemon water might offer your partner some relief. It’s a weird trick, but if it works, it’s golden.
6. Fresh Air & Gentle Movement: Sometimes, a bit of fresh air can do wonders. Encourage short walks or simply sitting outside for a few moments when the nausea hits. Gentle movement can also help, but make sure it’s okay with her healthcare provider first.
7. Aromatherapy: Scents can have a powerful effect on nausea. Peppermint, lemon, or ginger essential oils can be soothing. Have your partner sniff them directly from the bottle, or use a diffuser in your home. But be cautious, as some scents may worsen nausea for some.
8. Rest & Relaxation: Fatigue can ramp up the nausea, so encourage plenty of rest. Help create a peaceful environment at home where your partner can relax and recharge.
9. Dress Comfortably: Tight clothing can make morning sickness symptoms worse by adding pressure to already uncomfortable areas. Soft, loose clothing can help your partner feel more at ease.
10. Medical Consultation: If home remedies aren’t cutting it, it’s okay to seek help. Some cases of morning sickness require medical intervention, especially if it’s severe. Accompany your partner to the doctor to discuss options – it could be a game-changer.
Final thoughts
Mamas, you’re doing incredible work growing that little human, and partners, you’re champions for being by their side. Morning sickness can be tough, but together, you can find ways to lessen the discomfort. Try out these lifestyle and home remedies, and remember, this phase won’t last forever. Soon, you’ll be holding your little one in your arms, and all the queasiness will become a distant memory. Here’s to smoother days ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I help my wife with severe morning sickness?
First up, partner of the year—your support is crucial. Be her cheerleader and her aide. Help by preparing light, bland meals and ensuring she stays hydrated. Be understanding if she needs to switch up foods often. Listening and empathizing can be just as powerful as doing.
What helps morning sickness in early pregnancy?
Small, frequent meals can be a game-changer. Try ginger tea, saltine crackers, or bland foods. Keeping snacks by the bed for early morning nibbles can also work wonders. Each woman’s triggers and remedies can differ, so be open to experimenting.
Why does sour help morning sickness?
Sour flavors, like those from lemon or pickles, can help reduce saliva build-up, which can trigger nausea. They also provide a refreshing zing that can cut through the nausea fog. But remember, it’s all about what works for her palate.
What makes morning sickness worse?
Empty stomachs, strong smells, heat, and fatigue can amplify morning sickness. Encourage small meals and help keep the environment odor-free and cool. Rest is crucial, so encourage her to take it easy when possible.
What week is morning sickness the worst?
Typically, morning sickness peaks around weeks 9 to 13. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so timelines can vary. Be the steadfast support she needs, especially during these challenging weeks.
When does nausea peak in pregnancy?
Nausea usually peaks between weeks 8 and 12, as hormone levels rise. But take heart—most women start feeling better as the second trimester approaches. Keep up your support, and the end of the nausea tunnel might just be in sight.
Does taking prenatal vitamins at night help with morning sickness?
Yes, for some women, taking prenatal vitamins at night can lessen morning sickness. If they’re particularly queasy, consider vitamins with ginger or designed for sensitive stomachs. Encourage her to speak with her healthcare provider for tailored advice.
How do you treat pregnancy sickness?
Aside from home remedies like rest, hydration, and small meals, medical treatment might be necessary for severe cases. This can include medication prescribed by her healthcare provider. Be her advocate and accompany her to appointments if she’s up for it.
Does throwing up hurt the baby in the first trimester?
While it’s uncomfortable and exhausting for mom, occasional vomiting isn’t typically harmful to the baby. The little one is well-cushioned and nourished even if mom is struggling. However, if her vomiting is severe, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to ensure both mom and baby stay healthy.
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