We were thrilled to find out we are expecting baby number four back in June, and as this has been a wild year, this baby has already been such a light and blessing in our life. Now that the girls are a little older, they understand a baby is on the way, and their excitement and anticipation so much fun to witness.
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Nausea and fatigue hit a little harder this time around (seems to get a little more intense with every kid), and with three other little ones running around, it was more challenging to find the time to rest. I was desperate to find some relief, so I tried a few new remedies to get through the first trimester. When I was pregnant with Owen, I put together a post of my pregnancy essentials, and while many of those items remain true, here are a few more things to add to the list.
I switched up my prenatal and stuck with the gummies because of its the least repulsive option during sensitive times. They taste delicious and are free from artificial colors, sweeteners, preservatives, and high fructose corn syrup. They also have additional vitamins and goodies that many other prenatal don’t offer (probiotics and vitamin B6.)
I never heard of these until this pregnancy. I was willing to try anything to get me off the couch. After an in-depth google search, I came across these Sea Bands. They are knitted elasticated wristbands with plastic knobs placed along the inside of the wristband. The plastic knob exerts pressure and stimulates an acupressure point (P6). Its been proven that the pressure on this point relieves nausea and vomiting. After reading the raving reviews, I decided to give them a shot. They did not eliminate sickness, but I noticed a shift in the intensity and made driving bearable. Although they are not the most fashionable, they are washable and barely noticeable. Worth a shot if you are feeling desperate!
These candy-like morning sickness drops offer some temporary relief from the metal taste and nausea. I would usually take them while driving, and after dinner, when nausea seemed to be the worst.
LIQUID IV – HYDRATION MULTIPLIER
Staying hydrated during the first several weeks of pregnancy was a struggle. I was still breastfeeding Owen at this point, and I needed some back-up. I add one of these a day to my big water bottle every morning, and it has been a game-changer.
Eating is tricky during the first few months; you’re nauseous if you do and even more nauseous if you don’t. For me, anything that had nutritional value was the least appealing to me (veggies + protein.) I would just make myself drink a protein shake to get something nutritious in me.
Chocolate Protein Shake
1 scoop of protein powder
1 frozen banana
1 cup of almond milk
When fruits, veggies, and probiotics were lacking from my diet (which usually consisted of saltines and potato chips), I was able to keep down a smoothie, so I liked to include this super green powder to give it a little boost.
Super Green Smoothie
1 scoop of super greens
8 oz coconut water
1 cup of frozen fruit ( I usually go with banana or mango)
½ cup of greek yogurt
ZELLA LEGGINGS + LOUNGE CLOTHES
 I think I include loungewear in every post I write. I’m a sucker for a good lounge set, but especially when you are sick of feeling crappy and want to look put together but comfortable. Not too restricting on the belly, Zella leggings are my favorite for early pregnancy, as well for postpartum. For a other options and cheaper alternative with excellent quality, AE and Athleta leggings have similar high praises. Play around with sizing, I usually like to size up for wearing non-maternity leggings during pregnancy.
This tea has always been a favorite; I’ve been drinking it for years. It promotes digestive health and is soothing to a nauseous belly. I recommend finding a tea you like, something with mint or ginger to help with nauseousness.
UNISOM + VITAMIN B6 (consult your doctor on dosage)
I saved the best for last because I genuinely believe this combo was what pulled me through some of the most challenging days. When nausea hit the hardest, my doctor first prescribed Zofran, which resulted in some side effects that did not seem worth it (worst being pounding headaches.) My friend mentioned she had taken Unisom and vitamin B6 at night to keep the vomiting at bay, and so after consulting my doctor, I gave it a shot. Again it did not rid me of the symptoms completely, but it lessened them enough to feel like I could function as my almost usual self. My nausea hit the hardest at nighttime, so it was especially beneficial to take at night. Again, please consult with your doctor to see if this is an option for you.
I hope that you may find some relief or at least time to rest if you are suffering through pregnancy sickness. As many of these products have helped me through some challenging moments, nothing beats my family members chipping in to help with the kids and allowing me to take a nice long nap. Pregnancy is so hard, and your body is working overtime, it’s ok to look for some backup! Don’t be afraid to ask for help and to take it easy.
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