Q&A: How can I manage morning sickness?

One of the classic and most common early signs of pregnancy is nausea, which is the result of surging pregnancy hormones. Unfortunately for more than half of all pregnant women who do experience nausea (and for some, vomiting), "morning sickness" is not limited to the morning hours. This discomfort can last all day long. In some severe cases (about one percent), women can experience hyperemesis gravidarum, consisting of severe nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. This can land some women in the hospital for hydration and anti-nausea medications.

If you do feel nauseous, it is important to make sure that you are well-hydrated and nourished. There are a few tried-and-true tricks and tips that can help you through this unpleasant, but short-lived, part of your pregnancy.

• Eat small frequent meals
• Avoid odors or foods that bother you
• Drink small amounts of liquids throughout the day
• Eat some salty crackers in the morning or when feeling queasy
• Avoid becoming overheated
• Try sipping ginger tea
• Don't lie down right after eating
• Don't skip meals