Almost 300,000 women in Australia become pregnant each year; up to 80% will at some point suffer from morning sickness. Most mothers-to-be find their symptoms ease around week 14 but for an unlucky few, the nausea and vomiting may continue throughout the pregnancy.

Not surprisingly, most women are wary of treatment for morning sickness in case it harms their unborn child. Fortunately, there is now an easy way to combat morning sickness without taking drugs.

Acupressure: safe and effective

The traditional ways of controlling nausea during early pregnancy can help. These include eating a dry biscuit or toast before getting up each day or chewing ginger root. Yet scientific studies have proved that one of the most effective drug-free treatments is based upon the ancient Chinese principle of acupressure – effectively acupuncture without needles! This is available as the Sea-Band.

Morning Sickness

Sea-Band applies continuous pressure on the P6 (or Nei-Kuan) point on each wrist using a plastic stud; the point is very easy to find.

That acupressure can prevent and ease morning sickness was first scientifically proven in the UK by the late Professor John Dundee from Queen’s University, Belfast. In 1988 his report in The Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine showed that the women in the trial who used acupressure had suffered significantly less nausea and vomiting than those who didn’t.

A more recent study in Italy found that morning sickness was reduced in 70% of women who used Sea-Bands.
What’s more, one study conducted by an American midwife showed that women wearing Sea-Bands also reported less anxiety, depression and hostility!

Sea-Bands can be worn on each wrist whenever you feel nauseous; it’s comfortable, washable and discreet. One size fits all.

Take care … take control

Controlling your nausea can be a big step towards feeling positive about your pregnancy. Here are a few points to remember about taking care of yourself:

• Food: it’s quality rather than quantity that counts. Your baby depends on you for the nutrients it needs to develop, so follow a good, balanced diet. Avoid raw or lightly cooked eggs, soft and blue-veined cheeses, which could lead to bacterial infections: and pate and liver products
• Beverages: drink lots of water, milk and juice during your pregnancy, with tea and coffee in moderation
• Plenty of liquids will help you avoid constipation and piles. It’s best not to drink alcohol at all, particularly in early pregnancy
• Hygiene: be scrupulous about cleaning and food hygiene in the kitchen, particularly if you have cats or other pets. Pamper yourself, too, with relaxing baths and body lotions
• Exercise: swimming, yoga and walking will help you keep fit. Join a local class and meet other expectant mothers
• Smoking: give up as soon as you can for your own and your baby’s health