How to Help the Mom Who Has Morning Sickness

                                                                                         

With my very first pregnancy I was diagnosed with Hyperemesis gravidarum. The medical definition: Excessive vomiting in pregnancy. Hyper means "over"; emesis "vomiting"; gravidarum "pregnant state." ....My definition: Excessive, Severe, Extreme, Exhausting, Constant, Continuous, Life Changing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. I’ve had severe morning sickness with all seven of my healthy children. And with one that died at three months prenatal. Throwing up throughout the morning into the afternoon and throughout the evening was exhausting and I was admitted to the hospital several times for dehydration. I was hungry but not able to eat, thirsty but unable to drink and so miserable from nausea at one time I cried out to God that it would be better for me to not live (I’m glad he didn’t say yes to that prayer!)
When I got married, in 1992, I didn’t know I would end up having a big family, and I didn’t know ANYTHING about morning sickness. Despite the misery and challenges each pregnancy brings, every time I see the blessing of each precious child being born all my suffering is momentarily forgotten enough where I can say “let’s do it again.”
When I was pregnant for the first time, we moved to a small town where I didn’t know anyone. It was during this time I started formulating a “How To Help” list. I’ve added to it over the years as I’ve experienced different situations and received encouragement from helpful friends who have ministered to me in different ways. Here are a few things I have learned:
HOW TO HELP A MOM COPE WITH MORNING SICKNESS
1. Help with the duties and responsibilities that she is unable to do. Offer to do specific jobs that would help her, or her family. Meals for her family, laundry, dishes, childcare, ....the bathroom.
2. Give her a card of encouragement. A small token of kindness can go a long way to encourage her.
3. If talking with someone is a good distraction for her, call or visit her often. The days and nights go by very slowly.
4. Send flowers or something pretty to look at. Beautiful things can be uplifting to see.
Especially if she grounded to one part of the house for most of the day.
5. Read to her. Write her a poem. Sing, if she wants you to.
It’s nice for her to know that she is remembered, as she feels the world going on without her.
6. Be aware...her nose is extremely sensitive. Don't come near her if you have the slightest scent of cologne, aftershave, perfume, fabric softener, smoke, etc...on you.
7. Use encouraging words and tender comments. Pray with her.
This can be an emotionally trying experience and all conversations need to be optimistic and focus on the positive.
8. Humor can be a welcome addition to her day.
A funny book, movie, or even yourself (can you tell a joke?)…may bring a smile. Making her laugh can be a much needed and great relief.
9. Be supportive. Even though you cannot truly relate…It's real and miserable...try to understand how she feels! Let her cry.
10. Change her bedding, towels, throw-up bowl.....I know it may be gross! But.........if you want to know how to help…...=)

Use these suggestions as springboards for your own ideas on how to help the nauseous mom. Understand her challenge. Ask her for specific ways you can aid her. Initiate your support right away... she needs you now!



All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2007 Wendy Shaw. Reprints either full or in part allowed only with reference to my site included. Knowledge of where this article is placed appreciated.

About the author:
Wendy Shaw
wendy@mymorningsickness.com
http://www.MyMorningSickness.com
“Discover Safe & Natural Remedies, Nausea Relief from A-Z,
Super Remedy Guide, Great Resource for Relief of
Morning Sickness...Special Help for Extreme Morning
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Morning Sickness, Key Support Sites...Valuable Links"

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