Morning Sickness and Constipation

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Morning sickness is very common during early pregnancy and usually resolves itself by 15 weeks’ gestation. Unlike the name, it frequently occurs at all times of the day and may be worse on an empty stomach. Small, frequent meals will help prevent this, so be a grazer during pregnancy. Acupressure wristbands may help with nausea. Over the counter medicines that might help include Unisom® (1/2 of 25mg tablets at bedtime), Vitamin B6 (25mgs, three times a day), Benadryl® (25mg every 4–6 hours), Emetrol® (1–2tbsp upon wakening and every 3 hours as needed), and Ginger Ale (capsules are a less caloric option, take 250mg three times a day). Prescription medications may be required for persistent nausea and vomiting. Please call us if you are unable to keep down any fluid for 24 hours.

Constipation Relief

There is no agreement as to what constitutes normal bowel habits. The range for “normal” bowel evacuation is as often as two times a day to once a week. Many people believe that if they don’t have a bowel movement every day, they are constipated. This is not correct as long as your personal pattern is consistent. Symptoms that are not normal include straining with the stool, incomplete evacuation or stools that are too small or too hard. There are many causes for bowel problems: lack of adequate water intake, lack of adequate fiber intake, and lack of adequate exercise.

Due to your body’s hormonal changes during pregnancy, the time it takes for a bowel movement to pass will be longer. The use of iron supplements during pregnancy also promotes constipation. To treat constipation, increase fluid intake, and increase your fiber intake to reach 25–35gm daily. You may use a fiber supplement such as psyllium, Metamucil,® Benefiber® or FiberCon® pills. A stool softener like Colace® (docusate) can also help. Miralax® is a stimulant-based laxative that is also safe to use when pregnant.

Is it Time to Schedule Your Annual Wellness Exam?

Your annual women’s health appointment is a vital part of your health care, and the perfect time to talk to your Care Team about your personal health questions.

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Is it Time to Schedule Your Annual Wellness Exam?

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What People Are Saying

Toni G
2022-06-02
I've been seeing Dr. Price for many years and have always had a great experience with her. Dr. Price has always listened to me and addressed all of my questions and concerns. My only complaint is with a former nurse I saw for medical issues who didn't further investigate them and it got progressively worse. Luckily the current nurse practitioner diagnosed me correctly and have received the correct treatment.
Morgan Miller
2022-04-22
When I was looking for a gyno, Jeanette and Dr. Booth came highly recommended from family that see them and rightly so! Jeanette has the best bedside manner and takes the time to be thorough and understand the patient. When I had an issue outside of office hours, I was able to submit a question on the Follow My Health app and got a phone call in less than 30 minutes from the care team. They’re the best and I tell everyone about them!
Jennifer Stephens
2022-04-15
I’ve been a patient at Women 1st for 16 years and cannot say enough about this practice. Every staff member is caring, friendly, and very good at what they do. The physicians & nurses are some of the best in the state of Kentucky, which is why I currently live in Georgetown and drive to Louisville to continue my care. Highly recommend Dr. Warren or Dr. Price!
Kailee Kaiser
2022-02-17
Jeannette Jaggers, APRN is GREAT! I drive a hour and a half just to see her! Makes you feel comfortable and truly cares about YOU! Very happy to have her as my OB/GYN.