During pregnancy, complaints including morning sickness can be treated effectively and most importantly safely for both mother and baby. During the first three months of pregnancy all medication should be avoided, this being the most vulnerable time for mother and baby. Herbs, as well as some Vitamins and Minerals, unless specifically recommended and designed for use during pregnancy are also to be avoided. Homeopathy, however can be invaluable during this time.
Morning sickness usually occurs in the first trimester. For Mothers-to-be experiencing extreme nausea and vomiting including Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, homeopathic remedies may help with reducing the severity of symptoms. HG is generally described as unrelenting, excessive pregnancy-related nausea and/or vomiting that prevents adequate intake of food and fluids. If severe and/or inadequately treated, it is typically associated with:
- loss of greater than 5% of pre-pregnancy body weight (usually over 10%)
- dehydration and production of ketones
- nutritional deficiencies
- metabolic imbalances
- difficulty with daily activities
HG usually extends beyond the first trimester and may resolve by 21 weeks; however, it can last the entire pregnancy in less than half of the women sufferers. Complications of vomiting (e.g. gastric ulcers, esophageal bleeding, malnutrition, etc.) may also contribute to and worsen ongoing nausea.
Homeopathic remedies that have been popular for use with morning sickness include NUX VOMICA and SEPIA. PHOSPHORUS, PULSATILLA, NATRUM MURIATICUM and ARSENICUM may also be used in homeopathic potency. The best way to get the most fitting remedy, for those self-prescribing rather than getting advice from a qualified homeopath is to select the remedy that covers the general and emotional state that accompanies the physical condition. For instance PHOSPHORUS would be effective for vomiting in pregnancy, when water taken has had time to reach body temperature before the urge to vomit commences. The Mother-to-be benefiting most from PHOSPHORUS would have noticed an increase in their usual thirst and may experience extreme lack of energy and feelings of fear or anxiety. NUX VOMICA would be more useful for “morning sickness” where there is more retching than vomiting and a noticeable increase in irritability. There may be a sensation of dryness of the mouth accompanied by less thirst, and a bitter, sour or metallic taste in the mouth. SEPIA is indicated for nausea and weakness, and vomiting of bile and food during pregnancy. There may be profuse saliva.
Kits are available form Homeopathic pharmacies and good health food shops and Pharmacies that include remedies specifically for use during pregnancy. Homeopathic remedies are safe for Mother-to-be and Baby and can help relieve unwanted symptoms that accompany pregnancy.
Click here for Resources for pregnancy support during CoVid-19 self isolation.
Always consult a professional Homeopath and if symptoms persist consult your G.P.
