SIMPLE WAYS TO MANAGE MORNING SICKNESS AT WORK

By Temitope Rotimi

Trying to focus on your job during pregnancy and struggling to keep your last meal down at the same time can be distressing. We call it morning sickness but it can show its ugly head at any time of during the day. Studies and statistics vary but we can say that many pregnant women experience morning sicknesses. It can cause dehydration, weight loss and electrolyte imbalance which can force any pregnant woman out of her job. Here are some tips to help you handle morning sickness at work, gracefully:

FRESH AIR IS YOUR FRIEND

On your way to work, whether in your car or in a public vehicle, never forget to turn down the windows and breathe in some fresh air. The coolness of the oxygen will help to quell the queasiness most of the time. (If you live in a hot country) While at work, keep a fan on your desk and let it blow directly to your face.

ICED WATER! ICED FRUITS!

Never leave the house without a travel mug filled with iced water. Squeeze a slice of lemon into it for better results. You can take sips at intervals to help calm your raging nerves and also to stay hydrated. Iced fruits can also work wonders, at least they worked for me. I always made sure to pack a small cooler of iced cucumber to work. Snacking on them really helped to reduce the nausea.

PLAN AHEAD

Find out the fastest route to the ladies’ room from your desk or office. Barf bags come in handy at this point just in case you have to let it out before reaching the ladies’ room. Also remember to get help from your co-workers, they might be able to cover up for you while you’re away from your desk.

FRESHENING UP AFTER

Vomit breath can be very offensive to co-workers so never forget to always take along your morning sickness emergency kit that should include:

• A toothbrush, a toothpaste and mouthwash
• Face towels and wipes
• Some make up
• Natural body spray, if you can stand any smell at all
• Extra clothes including shoes
• Crackers and peppermints

TAKE A BREAK

Whenever you can, find a place to lie down during your break. Even a 20 mins power nap will do wonders. For worst days, call in sick and relax at home.

SEE A DOCTOR

Talk to your doctor about medications when every other thing fails to work. Sometimes morning sickness can keep you glued to the bathroom sink for hours every day. This might be when you will need your doctor to prescribe medications that will help suppress the nausea and vomiting of pregnancy.

Never forget it’s all for your beautiful baby. Once he or she comes, you’ll forget all of it and have bigger stuff to attend too. And if you’re one of the lucky pregnant women who hardly ever feel nauseous, cheers! Also remember, what worked for me might not work for you. Every pregnancy is different, so ensure to visit your doctor for medical advice.