Morning sickness is common experience for many women during the first trimester of pregnancy, often the thought, smell, or look of certain foods can send you running for the bathroom or waste basket. Morning sickness for most women will subside by week 12 to 14, but may sometimes last as long as week 17 or in extreme cases throughout the whole pregnancy.
Acupuncture is very effective at treating morning sickness, even the most severe cases! By using acupuncture points like Pericardium 6, Kidney 21, or Stomach 44 it will help to relieve nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain or cramps, and bloating as well as calm the mind. Stomach 36, Zusanli, is a very nourishing and tonifying point to harmonize the stomach and spleen and encourage optimal digestion as well as build immunity. Ginger tea is another great option to use food as medicine to treat nausea and vomiting, helping to alleviate discomfort and descend stomach qi to treat counterflow. Some women find drinking water with honey, lemon, and apple cider vinegar is also beneficial.
Ear seeds are another effective way for patients to prolong the effect of the acupuncture between treatments by applying these to specific acupuncture points as needed. It’s important to make sure you are getting all the nutrients you need especially during the first trimester, have you also considered bone broth? This is easily digested, helps to promote healthy digestion and is full of vital nutrients! Though morning sickness may be a normal part of pregnancy, there are multiple ways to combat this uncomfortable experience so you feel strong and healthy during this wonderful phase of life.