Morning sickness has, like many symptoms, been vilified in our society and is therefore thought of as something to cure. Nauseous moms-to-be can hopefully take some comfort in knowing that their specific symptoms are actually necessary for helping their baby to stay healthy even long past their nausea (and even their delivery) is behind them.
Nausea has a very important evolutionary role during pregnancy in that it prevents pregnant women from consuming toxins from certain foods, which then protects the growing fetus. Salivation, tearing, coughing, sneezing, diarrhea and vomiting are all ways to expel noxious substances. Likewise, we are naturally ­repulsed by garbage, feces and vomit as a defence against contagion.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, the fetus is the most vulnerable to toxins and moms-to-be practice ­innate avoidance behaviours with respect to certain odours generally associated with toxins. Essentially, a pregnant woman's definition of "garbage" broadens.

While many women feel a victim to morning sickness, the truth is that those who have less morning sickness ­miscarry more. In addition, certain drugs aimed at reducing morning sickness result in more fetal abnormalities. Another upside to nausea is that women who experience it during pregnancy have a much-reduced risk of breast cancer later in life--it appears that the pregnancy hormone HCG is breast protective and is the reason morning sickness lasts as long as it does. 

All told, morning sickness is an ­important stage for the health of both mother and baby.

Realizing the importance of morning sickness is good; however, like any symptom it can reach dangerously ­queasy heights. Much like when a child has a ­fever and it is generally best to let it run its course and serve its purpose, there is a point when the fever may reach too high and threaten the child.

In the case of exaggerated morning sickness symptoms, I recommend:

*Be sure to maintain constant blood sugar levels throughout the day since blood sugar levels are generally ­depressed in the case of excess nausea. However, be vigilant about consuming low to moderate glycemic index foods (www.lowglycemicdiet.com).

*Ensure a very healthy and nutrient-rich organic diet with folic acid ­supplementation.

*Drink ginger tea to help control stomach queasiness, which is ­generally caused by low progesterone that ­relaxes the stomach and causes ­increased acid reflux.

*Press on the mid-forearm about three inches from the centre of the wrist. This acupressure point is ­widely used to decrease nausea. There are bands available for purchase that keep pressure on this specific point for as long as you need it. Constitutional acupuncture is also beneficial.

*Stay away from all chemicals that produce toxins. Exposure increases the body's sensitivity to everything else.

*Consult a qualified healthcare professional if you require help determining whether your morning sickness is normal, and also for support and a fresh perspective.

Cheers to a happy, healthy  and positive pregnancy.

Dr. Parmar practises at evolve Nurturing ­Vitality in Vancouver with a special interest in family health, pediatric care and mind-body medicine. 102-2025 West Broadway www.evolvevitality.com  (604) 255-7777

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