Friendly Reminder to Treat Morning Sickness BEFORE it hits...

[Spark]

Hey, just a reminder to start treating morning sickness before it hits. If you treat before it sets in, it will be less than if you wait until you're sick to start treating. www.motherisk.org one of the foremost researchers on morning sickness and hyperemisis recommends starting treatment for those with a history of bad morning sickness before M/S kicks in.

There is a long list of proven natural treatments HERE (http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=618836) I think my favorite combo is Milk Thistle & Wild Yam root. B6, ginger tablets and lemon water are really nice, too. :) But, take a look & see what you think might work best for yourself. Remember, the earlier you start, the more likely they are to balance you out.

Now, keep in mind as VeganF pointed out further in this thread, that morning sickness is good for the body to an extent. http://www.greenjournal.org/cgi/content/abstract/95/5/779 At the same time, if you've been incapacitated from M/S or HG before... starting preemptive treatment will do much more for you than just reacting when it hits.

Ugh, Morning Sickness & HG. No fun! Can we put a ban on the ": puke" smilie right now???

Wishing you all healthy and happy 9 months!

[Spark]

Oh, so I thought I should mention what I'm taking right now:
150 mg of B-6 spread out into 3 doses
1 unisom at bedtime (along with one of the B-6's) - I take this only because of my history with severe Nausea and Vomitting in Pregnancy (NVP)
Wild Yam Root in pill form 3x per day
Milk Thistle 3x per day
Extra folic acid (800 mcg total)
Probiotics
Water with lemon

(Why Unisom? If you need even bigger guns than Wild Yam Root, starting 50mg B-6 with one traditional Unisom (doxylamine succinate) at night before bed may be the right option for you. As Morning Sickness kicks in then, you can increase to 25 mg of Vitamin B6, three time a day, together with half of a Unisom tablet (doxylamine succinate), i.e., 12.5 mg three time a day. Make sure you don't confuse the gel Unisom for the traditional doxylamine succinate kind.)

[finnegansmom]

So b-6 is good for morning sickness? I didn't know that. I'm still taking the 150 mg once a day for my short luteal phase.... I was too scared to stop. Should I just spread it out over 3 doses? I was unsure if it was too much and could be dangerous to the baby...

[veganf]

I have all Oops babies, so it's hard to start early. I posted in your pregnancy resources thread last week actually. Most of the remedies simply do nothing for me.
The only thing I haven't tried is the wild yam root and acupuncture. I'm going to try to get some wild yam root next week. And we have different health insurance than last time, though I have my doubts if acupuncture will be covered, but I'll certainly try if it gets really bad like with my third.

I'm already starting back on the dandelion root and added B6. I have both plain dandelion root and a dandelion root milk thistle combo.
I am not willing to use Unisom unless absolutely necessary, though I took it for 10 weeks with my third pregnancy.

Of course taking anything means actually being able to choke it down, which can be difficult to do with the heightened senses of pregnancy!

[mrs rockstar]

Going to the health food store today. I didn't have bad ms with my first two but I don't feel good at all this time.

[4Marmalade]

A question about B6. I can only find 100mg doses. Are they a type of tablet that I can cut in half to spread the dosage throughout the day?

[Spark]

So b-6 is good for morning sickness? I didn't know that. I'm still taking the 150 mg once a day for my short luteal phase.... I was too scared to stop. Should I just spread it out over 3 doses? I was unsure if it was too much and could be dangerous to the baby...

150 mg is just fine. :thumb Yes, splitting it up makes it easier for your body to absorb, especially if M/S kicks in for you.

So, did it help with your lutal phase? I guess so, huh? :lol

[Spark]

I have all Oops babies, so it's hard to start early. I posted in your pregnancy resources thread last week actually. Most of the remedies simply do nothing for me.

Ooh, yes, I responded. I was glad you posted your experience. I wrote you some questions. I'm sorry you didn't get any relief from what you tried. :hug I hope this time is much easier for you.

[Spark]

A question about B6. I can only find 100mg doses. Are they a type of tablet that I can cut in half to spread the dosage throughout the day?

Yeah, I'd just go ahead and split them in half. I bought cheap B6 from a grocery store because we weren't sure if we were going to TTC & I wanted to prep but not spend big bucks. The cheap kind I bought only comes in 100mg. So, I just split them. they have a handy line on them.

The higher qaulity B6 comes with vitamin C for added absorbancy. My cheap form does not, so I just usually try to take it with some kind of C either with my vitamin or with some C food.

[ekblad9]

Why start the unisom now? Does it help prevent it or build up in your system or something? I've tried mass amounts of b-6 and all that before. It never helped all that much but did sometimes take the edge off. What about herbs? I know those take a while to build up in your system. I'm starting with those this time. my b-6 also has b-12 and folic acid in it. Is that OK?

[Spark]

Amy, the reason to start immediately is because study after study has shown that it lessens the severity of nausea & vomitting during pregnancy. If you start treatment when the symptoms are in full swing it's a lot harder to reverse the symptoms. Here is the most well known study: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=15369934&query_hl=2 I know you mentioned trying Zofran this time around. If you can take that study (there are others, too, but this is the best known) to your Dr. and request Zofran (or generic) now before your symtoms you may have a better time getting insurance to cover it. If you really want to go the Zofran route, you could start 2-4mg once a day.

Motherisk has done oodles of studies with B-6/Unisom (called Diclectin in Canada) and they can actually help you come up with a game plan suited just for you if you give them a call. They are VERY helpful. They'll asnwer any questions you have, too & create a file for you at their organization.

Herbs, just like medicine are best when started BEFORE nausea and vomitting kick in. I'm 4.5 weeks pregnant. Usually I'm queasy at this point. Nope. Not in the least. I'm HUNGRY. I hope it keeps up! I'm soooo happy!

I don't know the upper limits of B-12 & folic acid. I'd just make sure that if you top off B-12 to 150mg, that you're not overdosing on the other vitamins in there. But, all in all it's nice to do B-vitamin combos. :)

[ekblad9]

I have some Zofron here. I just hesitate to take anything unless I"m totally desperate. I know it makes sense that when you feel sick you don't eat and then you throw up and it's a vicious cycle. I just am afraid to take anything unless I have to. I am pushing the herbs and that's making me a bit nervous too. I'm just a wreck all the time, LOL. I"m terrified of the sever m/s I know is to come but also of the drugs or herbs that might help it. I feel like I have to suffer through it every time. I feel selfish if I try something and it hurts the baby. But I worry about who will take care of me and my kids while I'm pukey for 4 months. :(

[nubianamy]

I take B6 and did with the first pg (50 mg/day) and I'm sure it helped with the m/s. Why the unisom?

[Spark]

Maggi! I live in Ann Arbor, too! :D The Unisom is only needed if you had severe morning sickness or hyperemsis in previous pregnancies. So, if you were able to semi-function, it's probably not for you. There are soooo many herbs in that link in the OP. If you feel like you want to try something else, you might find something listed that sounds appealing.

[mrs rockstar]

And I know this is probably a yes duh question but all of this is safe while breastfeeding, yeah? I've checked all the regular places and am coming up with yes duh answers there too but I like to hear it from real people too :lol

[ekblad9]

Maggi! I live in Ann Arbor, too! :D The Unisom is only needed if you had severe morning sickness or hyperemsis in previous pregnancies. So, if you were able to semi-function, it's probably not for you. There are soooo many herbs in that link in the OP. If you feel like you want to try something else, you might find something listed that sounds appealing.

I'm in Canton! Not far from you ladies! :)

[finnegansmom]

150 mg is just fine. :thumb Yes, splitting it up makes it easier for your body to absorb, especially if M/S kicks in for you.

So, did it help with your lutal phase? I guess so, huh? :lol

It DID! I had 7-8 day LPs for 2 months and then we got pregnant on the 3rd. I'm still nursing ALL the time especially at night since we cosleep so we were pleasantly surprised with the +!

I'm going to split up the dose, thanks for the info. I was dreadfully nauseous the whole first trimester with my DS. Blah....:gloomy:

[nubianamy]

Claire, how nice to meet a fellow Ann Arborite! And Amy, you're so close -- perhaps we should get together sometime. A little MDC mini-meetup. :)

Thanks for the clarification about the Unisom. I'll keep it in my bag of tricks.

[Spark]

And I know this is probably a yes duh question but all of this is safe while breastfeeding, yeah? I've checked all the regular places and am coming up with yes duh answers there too but I like to hear it from real people too :lol

All the herbs and recommendations listed in the link in my siggie & linked in the OP are safe while breastfeeding.

The unisom & Zofran are class drugs though, so they do carry some risks. It's one of those risks outweigh the benefits if you haven't had more than regular old morning sickness.

[Spark]

I tried to reply to you before, but kept getting the "server busy" page.

I have some Zofron here. I just hesitate to take anything unless I"m totally desperate. ... But I worry about who will take care of me and my kids while I'm pukey for 4 months. :(

Maybe you need to read more of the research done on preemptive treatment. I mean, the thing is, yes you could wait until you were totally desperate, but you would never get the relief as if you started following a protocol now. By starting a protocol (whether that's just herbal or a combination) statisticly speaking, not only will you delay the onset of NVP but also the severity and duration.

Well, the herbs are totally safe & can be started now as long as their within the recommended doses. Weighing the risks of Zofran definitely has to be done. It's category B. Certainly not like taking a Tylenol, but not like doing steroids either.

You Canton girl, you! You're right around the block from us. :)

[Spark]

finnegansmom - very cool on the LP! Yeah, nursing definitely has an effect!

nubianamy - we should meet up at Molly's store sometime. It's www.treecitydiapers.com It's a fun hang out. :) Ekblad, you wanna come, too? I know a friend of yours Stephanie/trnsmom. :)

[ekblad9]

Sure, I'll meet up! Let me know when. Sometimes I'm hard to pin down with all these pesky kids :lol

So I'll have to do some more research on the herbs. I need to make sure I'm no ODing with the RRL. It's in the More Milk Two but I'm also drinking it in tea form. So much to learn. You'd think this was my first baby and not my eighth! :lol

[mrs rockstar]

All the herbs and recommendations listed in the link in my siggie & linked in the OP are safe while breastfeeding.



Awesome, thank you. I picked up all the herbs and vitamins today though I'm going to skip the unisom for now. I didn't have bad morning sickness with either of my girls but I am definitely pretty queasy this time so I'm hoping the other stuff will help without the unisom. Thank you again!

[yvonnemlv]

I'm taking the milk thistle and RRL tea made from organic herbs i got from mountainroseherbs.

I need to go research GoldenRod and if it's okay to take during pregnancy in low amounts.

The tea seems to be working, along with making sure I get food every 1.5-2.5 hours. Even just nibbling on a couple oatcakes helps. Now i just need to focus on water amounts, I've been kind of lazy about that lately, heh.

[Spark]

Oh, Yvonne!!! :hug Sooo wonderful to see you! :love I don't know much about goldenrod. What are you using it for?

MrsRockstar, I hope you get some relief. :hug See what you like best. I think the best bets are Milk Thistle & Wild Yam Root personally. :)

[ekblad9]

How much is too much when it comes to herbs? Like the pregnancy tea - how many glasses/day is too much?

[nubianamy]

Yvonne, nice to see you again! We're in another DDC together. :)

Spark, I love Molly! I can't believe I haven't ever been to her store -- I bought my cloth dipes from her when she was selling out of her house -- and it's right around the corner from my house! I just can't seem to get there before or after work. Perhaps one of these days!

[yvonnemlv]

Oh, Yvonne!!! :hug Sooo wonderful to see you! :love I don't know much about goldenrod. What are you using it for?


Hiya again! "The traditional use of goldenrod was to treat kidney stones. GrieveÍs Modern Herbal notes that that in 1788 a boy of ten, after taking the infusion for some months, passed quantities of gravel, fifteen large stones weighing up to 40 grams (1-1/4 ounce), and fifty over the size of a pea. The flavonoids and saponins in the herb help relieve inflammation throughout the urinary tract while acting as a mild diuretic." I passed several stones previous pregnancy so i thought i'd help them along any that were left after I birthed my daughter.. and I took it for several months. I have quite a few baggies of the premixed up tea i made and I'm trying to decide if i need to make new tea what what few herbs I have left or if it's okay to keep using it.. my gut says it's okay anyway.. so just gotta do some more research. I wish I had Susan Weed's book on herbs and pregnancy... heh.

Yvonne, nice to see you again! We're in another DDC together. :)


Hi there again. How funny that so many of us are pregnant again and birthing the same month!

[veganf]

I wish I had Susan Weed's book on herbs and pregnancy... heh.

I've got it...but I don't see any mention of goldenrod...is there another name for it used in herbal circles??

[Spark]

How much is too much when it comes to herbs? Like the pregnancy tea - how many glasses/day is too much?

I'm an expert in what i know & a novice in what I don't know. i've researched out the wazoo over herbs to treat morning sickness/hyperemisis, but no clue about others. I really do not know about the contents of the Pregnancy Tea you're drinking and limits. Maybe someone else does though?

[Spark]

I wish I had Susan Weed's book on herbs and pregnancy... heh.


I have it too if you want me to look anything up for you. Just ask. :)
Very cool that it helps kidney stones. :thumb It's not an ailment I have, so I'm just not very up on it, ya know?

[veganf]

of course there's always the "morning sickness is good for you" theory: http://www.greenjournal.org/cgi/content/abstract/95/5/779

...just in case none of the remedies work and you need to feel positive about all the puking!

[ekblad9]

I like that article :) It makes me feel better about what's to come ;)

Anyone ever hear of these? Someone recommended them to me today but they are SO expensive! I already take most or all of what these packs contain. Anyway - thoughts? I'm usually so desperate with m/s that I'd spend any amount of money to not get it but I don't want to be stupid, yk?

http://www.shaklee.net/healthymomshealthybabies/product/20247

[Spark]

VeganF, ahhh, yes, that really really really is a good point. M/S happens for a reason! And, it really does usually mean a healthy baby. It's just there's so many of us that morning sickness totally wallops. I can not live in the hospital this pregnancy. I can not give up 4 months of my life to being semi-concious and vomitting blood & bile. And, then just plain grueling morning sickness for the following 4 months. I just can NOT do that to me or my family. So, I really need to do what I can to keep Hyperemisis at bay. Some morning sickness, I won't sweat. But, I have to do what I can to keep it under control. I believe being proactive is my best shot. That's just where I'm coming from.

Amy, I think I'd post about the Shaklee stuff in the main pregnancy forum. Someone might have more experience with it. I know people who sell it (from my understanding it's kind of like Amway, but more green) are beyond excited about it.

[veganf]

It's just there's so many of us that morning sickness totally wallops. I can not live in the hospital this pregnancy. I can not give up 4 months of my life to being semi-concious and vomitting blood & bile. And, then just plain grueling morning sickness for the following 4 months. I just can NOT do that to me or my family. So, I really need to do what I can to keep Hyperemisis at bay. Some morning sickness, I won't sweat. But, I have to do what I can to keep it under control. I believe being proactive is my best shot. That's just where I'm coming from.

I hear you! We decided to give it one more shot, but were seriously considering adoption after #3. It was like losing me from the family for 5 months :( (except that I took up everybody's space on the couch :fever: ). If I can make it through this one without being crippled by m/s maybe we won't have to start saving for adoption costs.

[Spark]

God, I just HATE M/S! And, I hate HG that much more! Ugh! I'm so sorry that we understand. :hug

[ekblad9]

Sorry to be a continuus pain but how much wild yam in the pill form?

[DawnaRose]

I went to the HFS yesterday and looked for B6, the gal I talked to recommended the liquid form, said it was easier to absorb, so I picked it up. Got home and it says in huge letters "do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding" :irked: I didn't inspect the others to see if they all said that. Should I return it, or are they just covering their toosh with the warning? :dizzy:

[veganf]

Should I return it, or are they just covering their toosh with the warning? :dizzy:

Yup. Just about everything says that.

re: wild yam, dandelion, milk thistle, etc. - I'm ordering my next bottles of herbs from here: http://www.oregonswildharvest.com/category.asp?idCategory=4
I've been buying this brand from Whole Foods and I really like it.

[Spark]

Sorry to be a continuus pain but how much wild yam in the pill form?

All the amounts are in the link in the OP or the link in my siggie. :)

[Spark]

Yup. Just about everything says that.

:yeah

Vegan those look good.

[mrs rockstar]

So I've only been doing this for a few days now but today? Not queasy at all. And I'm freaking myself out. Would it have started to help that fast??? I also got acupuncture yesterday so. I'm such a worrier!

[Spark]

Yes it would for some. :) What are you specifically doing?

[ekblad9]

I'm doing so many different things that I have no idea what is working but someting is. When I really start to feel yuk I eat a ton of protein, drink the tea, take vit b6, have some vit. c. So basically I'm stuffing my face all the time, LOL. My only fear is that I'm going to OD on something. I'm also way bored of cheese, hard boiled eggs, cheese, hard boiled eggs.....:lol I need something new....

[mrs rockstar]

Yes it would for some. :) What are you specifically doing?

I'm taking the milk thistle twice a day, B6 three times a day, water with lemon constantly and acupuncture once a week (plus my prenatal and more milk two). I have wild yam root but it's the liquid and I'm going to take that back and get the pill form on Saturday. I'm feeling queasy again right now so. But I felt great all day!

[veganf]

I've had the start of very mild nausea here and there, and within an hour of taking the B6/dandelion root/milk thistle combo I feel fine again. Don't know if it's a coincidence because I usually take it with food, but hey, whatever works!

[Spark]

Hmmm, most people say they get immediate relief from the Wild Yam Root, but more of a lasting effect from Milk Thistle. So, what you all are experiencing might just be the up/down of early morning sickness. Adding the WYR now may really help.

Running out the door this morning...

[veganf]

I'll be doing my Whole Foods run tomorrow morning. I know, who goes grocery shopping with 3 kids on a saturday?? :dizzy: It gives us something to do because my husband always works on saturdays. We go early though.
I'll order more of everything online, but I want to get the wild yam root asap so I'll just pay whatever WF is asking :p .

[mama to 2 girls]

Hmmm, most people say they get immediate relief from the Wild Yam Root, but more of a lasting effect from Milk Thistle. So, what you all are experiencing might just be the up/down of early morning sickness. Adding the WYR now may really help.

Running out the door this morning...

I'll have to go get some!!! I feel absolutely HORRIBLE this morning! :( I'm not throwing up but the constant nausea! UGH!! I am doing B-6, Dandelion root and lemon water. I do seem to get some relief through out the day but I haven't paid attention to whether or not it is soon after I take the b-6 and dandelion..I am just sooo thankful for the few minutes of relief I get...I drink the lemon water all day....I usually use 1 whole lemon (they aren't too big) is that enough?...

If I can get my butt up and dressed I'll run out to the health food store and get some Wild Yam and milk thistle....Is that too much to do all together?.....at this point I will try EVERYTHING!! :lol

[Spark]

I'll be doing my Whole Foods run tomorrow morning. I know, who goes grocery shopping with 3 kids on a saturday?? :dizzy:

I'm going to erect a shrine to you in my kitchen!!!! That's amazing! :bow

[Spark]

If I can get my butt up and dressed I'll run out to the health food store and get some Wild Yam and milk thistle....Is that too much to do all together?.....at this point I will try EVERYTHING!! :lol

:hug I'm sorry you're feeling nauseaus.

Dandelion & Milk Thistle work pretty much the same way. Dandelion is little more gentle. Milk Thistle is more potent. They work in unison really well though. Remember, you want the MT standarized to contian at least 70% silymarin and max of 280 mg per day. If you do Dandelion with it, then I probably wouldn't go all the way up to the maximum.

Everything else goes beautifully together. I hope you get some relief. :hug

[Spark]

My nasuea/vomitting update:
I'm over 5 weeks now. Usually, I'm queasy at best now. But, nothing. I'm HUNGRY and tired. But, that's it. I don't really want sweets (odd for me) but I REALLY want meals. I ate over 70 grams of protein yesterday. I didn't even think that was possible. :lol Now, I know that eating protein is supposed to help with nausea, but this was a like a I MUST EAT PROTEIN I'M SO HUNGRY thing, not anything on purpose.

Oh, and POOF, I look pregnant. I got asked yesterday when I was due. I think the poor woman almost died when I said, "Mid-July"

[veganf]

I'm going to erect a shrine to you in my kitchen!!!! That's amazing! :bow

:lol They were good as gold as usual...the Whole Foods Kids Club gave them free pears to munch.
Unfortunately they were out of plain Wild Yam. They had it combined with Don Quai, but I don't want that, so I'm gonna order online instead.

My update--the slightest twinges of nausea here and there, but otherwise I feel frighteningly good!
The pilates class yesterday has left me quite sore though. :dizzy:

[mama to 2 girls]

ok, I have another question...:o

I just got some milk thistle extract from the health food store and the one I bought has the least amount of anything added...It is standardized to 80% Silymarin, but it also has 700mg of Turmeric in it. Is that ok?

Also I got some wild yam root and it is 425mg per capsule, how many should I take.

Still feeling like crap, but at least I can keep food down....and just HOW long is this m/s supposed to last again?!:lol

TIA! :)

[herenow2]

Milk Thistle Question -
I started taking milk thistle before I conceived to try to prevent morning sickness but just read something about it having "estrogenic properties" and not recommended during pregnancy. So, now I am nervous about it, but not sure I want to stop either because I really feel like it is helping me already. Does anyone know any thing about this? Thanks!

[ekblad9]

I'm just over 5wks as well. I'm usually down for the count about now. Currently I'm OK if I take a breather occasionally, drink my pregnancy tea constantly, have a million grams of protein/day (I need more protein ideas. I'm bored already!).

My WYR is 425 as well, I think. I was also wondering how much to take. I could only find doses for the tincture and the tea on that site.

I'm really, really tired today. Tomorrow is my dd's 11th bday. Today is my mom's 60th bday. We've been running for two days straight. And tomorrow promises more of the same.

I bought some almonds and other nuts today to keep around the house and in my purse. I need to be sure I have something with me at all times. Still - I feel the impending doom of full on m/s is to come. Everyday that I"m not down and out is a gift, IMO.

[veganf]

(I need more protein ideas. I'm bored already!).

I can only offer vegan ideas, but I'll try to list most of my faves:
- nuts & trail mixes
- banana nut bread
- pumpkin nut muffins
- homemade hummus
- falafel w/ tahini sauce
- 4 bean salad
- pasta salad w/ beans
- ww pasta w/ tomato kale bean sauce (I usually add cannellini or black beans)
- Luna bars or other granola bars
- nutty granola cereals
- chili
- chocolate almond milk &/or hemp milk
- soy yogurt
- tofu almond loaf
- lentil loaf
- baked tofu in tahini sauce
- spicy baked tofu
- tofu quiche or mini-quiches made in a muffin tin (the kids love these too)
- tempeh and broccoli w/ thai peanut sauce
- baked tempeh salad
- Indonesian tempeh stirfry with hazelnuts
- pbj sandwich
- seitan fajitas
- edamame
- cold soft tofu with spicy sauce
- kale sunflower burgers
- pasta with nutritional yeast "cheese" sauce
- grilled "cheese" sandwiches on flax/nut bread
- smoked tempeh "BLT" sandwiches
- miso soup
- lentil soup
- vegetable bean soups
- refried bean dip/ 7 layer bean dip
- bean burritos
- black bean & corn salad
- smoothies made with hemp or almond milk & rice protein powder
- cannellini bean & garlic gratin
- chili tamale pie
- peanut butter cookies
- pesto (made with walnuts or pine nuts) over whole grain pasta
- miso tahini dressing for salads
- split pea soup
- tempeh cacciatore
- spinach walnut loaf
- brown rice pilaf with slivered almonds
- roasted pumpkin seeds
- quinoa salad
- bean burgers
- spaghetti and "meat"balls
- spanish rice & beans
- chick pea curry
- Sunshine Burgers
- Tartex pate
- tofu salad sandwich
- vegetable tofu lasagna
- spinach tofu stuffed pasta shells
- oatmeal with sliced almonds
- baked apple walnut crisp
- pecan "soup" over ice cream :o

[ekblad9]

Wow! Those are so much more exciting than cheese and eggs! Thank you!! I'm going to print and put on my fridge. :)

[Spark]

You're all wondering dosage on WYR... let's see this is what I posted in the link in the OP:
1 to 2 tsp three times of day of the dried wild yam herb.
As tincture take 2 to 4 mL three times daily. It's also good for threatened miscarriage.

But, you both both capsules then? Let's see, there's no great way to calculate mg into tsp since they're weight vs. mass measurements. I'll have to go see what I can find. My gut says to start off with 1 x per day for 3 days. Then, increase to 2 x oer day for 3 days. Then, 3 x per day and stay there. But, let me see what I can find out.

Milk thistle & estrogen effects - From what I read about it, there's a "possible" connection, but there hasn't been any kind of evidence. There seems to be more evidence to support that Milk Thistle is beneficial to endometrios patients to help support the body's ability to regulate estrogen & process excess in a way that's helpful to the body. This is Shonda Parker's site. She's a well-known herbalist & huge promoter of Milk Thistle during pregnancy. You might find some answers with her: http://naturallyhealthy.org/archive3.htm

[Spark]

Wild Yam Root
Okay, it looks like dosages range from 0.4 to 4 g/day. 4 g seems like way too much to me. I think probably topping out around 1000 mg would be as high as I'd personally feel comfortable. So, I guess, with your 425 mg, I'd work up to 2-3 pills spread out through the day. It really depends on the absorbancy and potency of the pills. And, how your body responds.

I hope you get some good relief! :hug

Great protien list, Vegan! :thumb Makes me want to go get a snack RIGHT now!!!!

[herenow2]

Milk thistle & estrogen effects - From what I read about it, there's a "possible" connection, but there hasn't been any kind of evidence. There seems to be more evidence to support that Milk Thistle is beneficial to endometrios patients to help support the body's ability to regulate estrogen & process excess in a way that's helpful to the body. This is Shonda Parker's site. She's a well-known herbalist & huge promoter of Milk Thistle during pregnancy. You might find some answers with her: http://naturallyhealthy.org/archive3.htm

Thanks for the information and the link Spark. That's a great site, so much useful information.

[ekblad9]

Someone tell me why I'm so paranoid about RR Leaf Tea? I mean, truly paranoid. I drink it mixed with several other herbs in a pregnancy tea. The tea is awesome, makes me feel better, but I worry constantly about it. I am a worrier at heart anyway but I'm really worried about this. Even though MOST things I read say it's OK. I'm such a pain!

[Spark]

Herenow - the slant there is definitely Christian. Which if you are, then it's great. If you aren't, then just know that the information is REALLY good! Glad you're enjoying the read. :)

Well, let's see, Amy, RRL does have tannins in it. Some women are more prone to ctx when taking tannines. But, if you haven't experienced that in the past, then its' probably not an issue for you. RRL is used to prevent miscarriage. Susan Weed is a well respected herbalist & she has tons of info here on RRL for all stages pre and during pregnancy. http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Pregnancy_Problems.htm

[Mom2Lex&Cay]

Just thought I'd mentioned that I was able to find a time release B-6. I like that I only have to take 1 pill and it covers me for a day, I hope.:lol

So far I'm feeling well, just super tired. I'm only getting a bit queasy, mostly due to eating something that didn't agree or going too long without eating. Waiting for the other herbs I bought online to arrive.

I'm also about a week to 2 weeks out from when the worst usually hits for me. :fingersx:

[veganf]

I'm also about a week to 2 weeks out from when the worst usually hits for me. :fingersx:

Me too. I may be feeling great now, but the real test for all the herbal supplements will begin later. I'm only 4 weeks right now. I hope we all continue to do well!

[Spark]

:nod Yes, week 7-8 is the real test for me. :fingersx: Let it work!

[ekblad9]

I keep thinking "please let this work in a couple of weeks" so we'll see. I usually don't feel yucky this early and have felt massive twinges of m/s. I would already be down for the count if it weren't for all of these great ideas. So thank you so much for this! Every day I manage to function is a gift. I'll be eternally grateful to you!

[Spark]

I just got some milk thistle extract from the health food store and the one I bought has the least amount of anything added...It is standardized to 80% Silymarin, but it also has 700mg of Turmeric in it. Is that ok?

Ack! I'm so sorry, I didn't catch the tumeric info the first time I read though... I don't even know why I was re-reading, but I was! Anyway, that's too much Turmeric for pregnancy. Turmeric helps the liver cleanse and supports healthy function, however it's a mild uterine stimulant as well. It's fine to flavor food, but 700mg is too much while pregnant... unless you're in the last couple weeks. I'm going to PM you to make sure you see this!

[Spark]

Every day I manage to function is a gift. I'll be eternally grateful to you!

Hey, I just compiled the info & everyone else has added what they know, too. This is about you making choices for you to have the best possible pregnancy you can have. :hug

Who else feels like a major science experiement? It's like we're all prepping for the big 7-8 week surge... wondering... will our experiment work!?!? Sometimes I think, OF COURSE IT WILL, other times I get fearful and wonder if I should start care with an OB... but really, it HAS to work. I just can't check out of life for months on end.

[veganf]

Who else feels like a major science experiement? It's like we're all prepping for the big 7-8 week surge... wondering... will our experiment work!?!?

Time will tell. But it BETTER WORK!!!!!!!!!!! I can't be that sick again.

[ekblad9]

Well, I got REALLY sick this afternoon. Nothing was helping. I decided to try the Zofron to see how I reacted since I didn't have any driving etc. to do. It worked like a miracle. I feel completely normal. Now I'm worried I'll want to take it all the time. I'm still going to do all the herbal and supplemental stuff because it *is* helping. I just have to be able to function. Please, God, don't let this harm my baby.

[mrs rockstar]

Ha, I was just joking to my husband that I feel like I'm in a science experiment. I just checked my milk thistle bottle and I wanted to run the ingredients by you to see if they sound ok dose wise (since you're the expert here!!)...

it's milk thistle 120mg providing 100mg silymarin and 20 mg of milk thistle fruit and 14 mg citrus bioflavonoids. All good?

I don't feel great today. I don't know if it's that I didn't sleep enough, drink enough, eat enough, a combo or just that my time to feel icky has come. I still don't have wild yam root, I'm going to pick some up when I go into town tomorrow. Going to drink some peppermint tea and hope for the best tonight.

Good luck ladies!!! That 7-8 week mark is coming!! Here's hoping our luck keeps up!

[mchalehm]

Well, I got REALLY sick this afternoon. Nothing was helping. I decided to try the Zofron to see how I reacted since I didn't have any driving etc. to do. It worked like a miracle. I feel completely normal. Now I'm worried I'll want to take it all the time. I'm still going to do all the herbal and supplemental stuff because it *is* helping. I just have to be able to function. Please, God, don't let this harm my baby.

Try not to worry too much about this. Zofran, like any drug, is not risk-free, but it is well-tested and proven quite safe. I would rather take this than most other drugs during pregnancy--and I feel that it is better for my babe than a horrible diet, which is all that I can manage when not taking it. Anyway, if you do take it, it does no good to feel guilty. You've made an educated decision, you know? Go with what you think is best for the babe--and you--and then try not to second-guess yourself.

[ekblad9]

You're right and thank you. I worry about everything. :lol Especially when things make me feel better. Somehow it's in my head that I have to suffer to get good things. Anyway - when the herbs were helping I worried that those were harmful. I feel selfish for wanting/needing to be functional and feel decent. I'm a wack job. ;)

[Spark]

Well, I got REALLY sick this afternoon.

Oh, Amy, I'm so sorry. :hug What all are you taking? I went back & reread & it looks just like B-6? Are you doing anything else? If so, how much? I mean, I know you're doing the pregnancy tea, but there's not really anything in there associated with reducing M/S or hyperemisis.

I'm glad you got relief from Zofran. There just might be other things for you, if you want to explore the herbal remedies. Wild Yam Root & False Unicorn are stronger than just B-6 alone. Milk Thistle is really nice, too, but I would hit WWR & False Unicorn if you can only keep down a little bit.

But, don't feel pressured to do more natural remedies if you feel like you just want Zofran. Let your heart be your guide & you'll be on the right path. We all have to do what's best for our families. :hug

[Spark]

sorry double post

[Spark]

it's milk thistle 120mg providing 100mg silymarin and 20 mg of milk thistle fruit and 14 mg citrus bioflavonoids. All good?

I still don't have wild yam root, I'm going to pick some up when I go into town tomorrow. Going to drink some peppermint tea and hope for the best tonight.


So, topping out at 3 of those Milk Thistle capsules a day sounds like a good limit. They sound really nice. :thumb

Yeah, if you're feeling nauseaus for sure, get on that WYR. It's best to start before nausea hits, but you're still in the early stages, it sounds like. Prime time to add it. :)


Good luck ladies!!! That 7-8 week mark is coming!! Here's hoping our luck keeps up!

Please, please. please! :fingersx: Happy tummy vibes! :dust

Still NO nausea from me. This is great. I'm 5w 2d.
This is what I'm on...
150 mg of B-6 spread out into 3 doses (just cheap stuff from grocery store, I take vit C for absorbtion)
1 unisom at bedtime (along with one of the B-6's) - I take this only because of my history with severe Nausea and Vomitting in Pregnancy (NVP)
Wild Yam Root in pill form 3x per day PLUS by Mannatech (http://www.purenhealthy.com/Mannatech_PLUS_p/man-1005.htm)
Milk Thistle 3x per day
Extra folic acid (800 mcg total)
Probiotics (Kefir)
Water with lemon
--------------- added ---------------
Enzymes before meals Simplexity Health Enzymes (https://www.simplexityhealth.com/products/specsheets/enzyme_spec.html)
Flax Seed Oil (this isn't really NVP prevention)

[mchalehm]

Does anyone else have issues with the Unisom making them too tired? I took one before bed and I was knocked out the whole next day; taking a half, which I tried, was better, but didn't really help the nausea. (The whole one did help the nausea....but I was too tired to be a good teacher or to feel comfortable driving.) I'd really rather be okay with the herbs than need the Zofran, but I just have so many side effects with the herbs.

[ekblad9]

Yes - the unisom always hit me hard and for a long time. Even when I only took a half. FWIW the Zofron did not make me tired at all.

OK - I'm doing the tea which is RRL, Nettles, Dandelion, Chamomile, spearment, rosehips, alphelpha. About 1 qt/day of that. I take a multitude of vitamins. A b complex slow release, the 150 b6 spread out three times, emergen-c (1/day), omega 3's (1000mg), more milk two which has RRL, Nettles, and something I can't remember :lol . I did WYR a couple of times but worried b/c it was in pill form that I was taking too much. I noticed you posted to that above so I will try that again. Also - I've been eating about 10 grams of protein with occasional carbs every hour and a half up intil around 11pm. I eat breakfast at 8 a.m. or so. I also drink about 100 oz of water/day.

It's so frustrating b/c I did this last time as well (minus the WYR) and it only helps to a point. Plus I feel more sick and much, much earlier than last time.

weird thing is that when I took the Zofron my nipples didn't hurt as much when I nursed the baby! I don't get that at all.

Anyway - thanks for listening. I whine my way through the first and half of the second trimester every time. Oh, wait, I whine about something through the whole pregnancy. :lol

[Spark]

OMG! I just went back to my last DDC's archives! IT'S WORKING!!!! I couldn't remember the details, so I went & looked it up. Last time I was nauseaus up until the 5th week & then I started puking! http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=269279 OMG! I can say it's working thus far!!!! :clap Not only have I not puked, but I'm not at all nauseaus! OMG! I wish that for you all!!!!!!

Unisom - Because I was hospitalized for such a long time last pregnancy and read the studies at motherisk.org for HG women, I really trust in it. I have taken it religiously every night before bed. I really don't care if I'm more tired (not that I've been able to tell the dif between it & regular 1st trimester stuff). Frankly I don't care about being tired. I need to not vomit blood & bile.

Hmmm, so Ekblad, you really only have a minute amount of Dandelion (weaker than MIlk Thistle) and B-6 going on for you. It's really not much for anti-nausea. You can do herbs in combination with Zofran. It might mean that you can take less Zofran or feel a longer lasting effect from it. I'm so sorry you're dealing with M/S. :(

[mrs rockstar]

I couldn't find anything on safefetus...is unisom ok for nursing moms too? I'm guessing yes if it's ok for pregnancy but wanted to double check.

[ekblad9]

I took unisom with my last two pregnancies and I was also nursing. I think it's fine but that's not documented (that I've seen).

I searched the archives too and I didn't get sick like this last time until the middle of week 8! I'm only 5 wks 3 days right now. That's a shame for me.

I'll look into some of the herbal treatments. I'm hoping I can get a grip on the herbal stuff while on the Zofron. If I'm not too sick I think I can keep up with the other stuff better.

[Spark]

nak
Here's a run-down of meds & safety while breastfeeding. I think this is from Dr. Hale's book:
http://forums.helpher.org/viewtopic.php?t=20875

I use unisom at night. My almost 2yo is night weaned. It's one of those calculated risks, I take, because I feel the benefits far outweigh the risks to either of us.

[veganf]

Does anyone else have issues with the Unisom making them too tired?

I took generic unisom and B6 twice a day with my 3rd pregnancy. It took about a week and a half for my body to adjust and be able to function without feeling super-tired. I've heard that from other people too who've taken it. Usually there is an adjustment period.

[4Marmalade]

I was really hoping this pregnancy would be a bit different but at 5 weeks, 6 days I am feeling really bad. I haven't puked yet but I feel so close. I'm pretty much nauseous all day long and then I get these tiny windows of feeling OK so I'm able to actually eat something. I'm so tired and go to bed early but can't sleep because I feel so sick and don't even want to roll over.

I'm taking B6 with vit C three times a day along with milk thistle. I tried some RRL tea yesterday but it didn't help. I don't like tea to begin with so the smell just kind of put me over the edge. I might try to find some wild yam root.

[Lorette]

Spark-
I bought milk thistle caplets. They have 80% (whatever that ingredient is?). But I just noticed it also has Turmeric and it says on the bottle that pregnant and lactating women (I am pg AND lactating) shouldn't take these pills because they shouldn't take turmeric. What do you think of this?

Also, I have mild but annoying nausea on and off throughout the day and night. I know there is a risk/benefit that should be weighed while taking any meds while pg. Is this the same with any of these herbs or are they TOTALLY safe? I also bought dandelion leaf/root tincture and yellow dock root tincture-- but haven't taken them yet.

Right now I am just drinking some mild dandelion leaf tea and mild nettle/rrl tea throughout the day. I think those are helping a little and I feel like they are good for me right now. But then I hear people say that their MWs tell them not to take RRL in the first trimester and that makes me a little nervous. But my body is telling me these teas are good for me-- so I guess I should just trust my body, right?

Thanks for your help. You are doing a great thing by getting all this information out!

Lorette

[finnegansmom]

Well, I'm 5 weeks today and it's starting. The headachy - constant nausau I had for 2 months with my son. Oh boy. I can't remember if we can even take Aleve or anything for headaches - I get really REALLY bad headaches (almost migraines, I get those too) but not quite. I need some stomach settling tea or something. Or a hug. LOL.

[Spark]

I'm taking B6 with vit C three times a day along with milk thistle. I tried some RRL tea yesterday but it didn't help. I don't like tea to begin with so the smell just kind of put me over the edge. I might try to find some wild yam root.

I'm sorry you're not feeling so well. :hug Are you maxed out on the MT? And, you're getting at least 70% silymarin, right?

RRL has no correlation with helping nausea. It's just not documented anywhere.

I think adding Wild Yam Root and possibly False Unicorn tincture may help you. Or if you wanted to do ginger. Just make sure and follow the recommendation for M/S with ginger (linked in my signature) if you decide to try it. All ginger is not the same.

:hug

[Spark]

Spark-
I bought milk thistle caplets. They have 80% (whatever that ingredient is?). But I just noticed it also has Turmeric and it says on the bottle that pregnant and lactating women (I am pg AND lactating) shouldn't take these pills because they shouldn't take turmeric. What do you think of this?

I hope you don't mind, I'm going to save myself some typing & just redirect you to other posts in this thread.
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showpost.php?p=9709903&postcount=68

Is this the same with any of these herbs or are they TOTALLY safe? I also bought dandelion leaf/root tincture and yellow dock root tincture-- but haven't taken them yet.

If you follow the recommended limits (in OP and linked in my siggie) then they are totally safe. What are you taking yellow dock root tincture for? It has no correlation to nausea that I'm aware of, FYI.

Right now I am just drinking some mild dandelion leaf tea and mild nettle/rrl tea throughout the day. I think those are helping a little and I feel like they are good for me right now. But then I hear people say that their MWs tell them not to take RRL in the first trimester and that makes me a little nervous. But my body is telling me these teas are good for me-- so I guess I should just trust my body, right?


Dandelion is milder than milk thistle. So, you're not realy getting the full benefit from that, yet I'm sure it's helping somewhat. Nettle and RRL have no correlation with helping M/S or nausea. Tannins are a reason that some M/Ws recommend skipping RRL. Here's what we talked about earlier in this thread: http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showpost.php?p=9700490&postcount=63

Wishing you ease & good health. :hug

[4Marmalade]

I'm sorry you're not feeling so well. :hug Are you maxed out on the MT? And, you're getting at least 70% silymarin, right?

RRL has no correlation with helping nausea. It's just not documented anywhere.

I think adding Wild Yam Root and possibly False Unicorn tincture may help you. Or if you wanted to do ginger. Just make sure and follow the recommendation for M/S with ginger (linked in my signature) if you decide to try it. All ginger is not the same.

:hug

Hi Spark. Maybe you can help me. I just checked out my milk thistle caplets and here's the list of ingredients:

Milk Thistle Seed Powder (80% Silymarin) 2100mg
Burdock Root Powder 155mg
Dandelion Root Powder 155mg
Licorice Root Powder 40mg
Wild Yam Root Powder 60mg

I've been taking 3 caplets/day although the bottle says I can take as much as 6/day. What do you think? And the amount of Wild Yam Root Powder? Is that sufficient? Or is there a higher dosage recommended and I should pick some more up. I tried to find some ginger capsules but didn't have any luck. I tried all things ginger during my first pregnancy and now the smell makes me even more nauseous so I would need something with no odour.

[Spark]

Well, I'm 5 weeks today and it's starting. The headachy - constant nausau I had for 2 months with my son. Oh boy. I can't remember if we can even take Aleve or anything for headaches - I get really REALLY bad headaches (almost migraines, I get those too) but not quite. I need some stomach settling tea or something. Or a hug. LOL.

Michelle, I'll definitely give you a big hug! :hug I had pregnancy headache stuff before and ugh. No fun. I think it was early dehydration, perhaps?

There are TONS of herbs and treatments linked in the OP or in my siggie. You have to drink a LOT of tea to reach the upper limits expressed there though.

If you just want a tea because you think that sounds good, I'd go for a tummy tea. This Happy Tummy Tea here sounds really good to me. http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/tea_bev/tea_bev.html Something like this though is treating the symptoms not the root of the issue though. Remember too, if hot liquids aren't working for you, you can always make iced tea or add ice to your liquids.

Another :hug just because. :hug :hug :hug I'm sorry you're feeling icky.

[finnegansmom]

Thanks for the :hugs. :-)

I've actually been drinking the Mother's Milk tea - yogi - and it has fennel in it and seems to be settling my stomach. It just feels good, I'm loving tea right now.
I wish I could snuggle up on the couch, but I work from home - plus with a 13 month old, the second I turn my back he's up to no good. I fear that changing diapers will soon be my complete nemisis. Oh boy. I going to have to tape a deo-disk to my nose just to walk by the diaper pail. LOL.

ETA - you're right about the dehydration - I have been SO thirsty lately. Parched. Nursing alot too. Trying to drink more water.... I tend to forget though.

[Spark]

I going to have to tape a deo-disk to my nose just to walk by the diaper pail. LOL.

:lol That sounds attractive! :lol I know a lot of moms swear by putting Vivk's Vapor-rub (or a natural equivalent) directly under their nose to block out any other smells. One more :hug for you.

[veganf]

I know a lot of moms swear by putting Vivk's Vapor-rub (or a natural equivalent) directly under their nose to block out any other smells.

OMGosh that stuff makes me want to hurl! ANYTHING minty smelling during pregnancy, forget it!!! No mint tea. No mint toothpaste. Ack.

Sorry, that's just one of the worst for me :o .

I had to stop taking my DHA supplement today. This seems to happen every time. I cannot stomach the sea scent during the first trimester at all. It's like walking by the seafood counter at the supermarket :Puke I'll have to change to flax oil in smoothies for a while until I can get past it.

[ekblad9]

Yep - I'm sick. I fell awful even WITH the Zofron! In all fairness my youngest was up from midnight to 3:30 a.m. so I got very little sleep last night. Trying to keep up with my herbs/supplements/protein today but it's tough. I really feel worn out. I can't believe I'm not even 6 wks yet. :(

[veganf]

SH*T. I just threw up in the kitchen sink. Dammit! :irked: The smell of the gas stove used to get me every time.

I'm still waiting on my herb shipment with the wild yam (nobody seems to have it locally right now). I'm gonna get some generic Unisom today and start a half tablet at bedtime.

Grrrrr........

[ekblad9]

I"m so sorry :( That really stinks. I hope you're feeling better soon.

I have NO signs of pregnancy today. None. I really hope it's just b/c I'm so early still. I took two Zofron yesterday b/c I felt so horrible. Now today, nothing.

[Spark]

SH*T. I just threw up in the kitchen sink. Dammit! :irked: The smell of the gas stove used to get me every time.


Errr, I'm sooooooo sorry. :(

Big :hug to you! I hope your herbs come & they help! Good call on the unisom.

[Lorette]

Nettle and RRL have no correlation with helping M/S or nausea. Tannins are a reason that some M/Ws recommend skipping RRL. Here's what we talked about earlier in this thread: http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showpost.php?p=9700490&postcount=63

Wishing you ease & good health. :hug

Spark-
FYI on page 25 of Susun Weed's book she suggests drinking a cup or two of RRL tea per day to remedy morning sickness.
Thanks for all your help!

Lorette

[kamesennin]

.

[ekblad9]

Nettle has a lot of iron in it so really it would help, in a round about way, with morning sickness. When I'm anemic I'm more sick to my stomach and such.

I feel pretty yuck right now. I'm on the zofron but am super tired and very crabby. I'm sure alot of it has to do with the fact that the dr. still hasn't called me with my test results. Dr's are never in a rush and I find it very irritating and rude.

[Mom2Lex&Cay]

So sorry many of you are feeling bad!!

So far I'm holding my own, but it is early. Last night I felt terrible. I'm not sure if I was coming down with something, as DD has been sick for several days, or if it was a bout with M/S. I was hungry, but could not eat anything and felt terrible. Went to bed early and feel much better today.

I'm starting to have passing swings of nausea and queasiness, but not bad at all and it does pass. No vomitting, so I'm feeling lucky so far.

I don't know if it's funny or not. Still not sure...:lol Anyway, I ordered some herbs I couldn't find locally and included in the package was a free gift of tierra dulce incense cones. They make me want to hurl!!! It's terrible! I got it on my hands and couldn't get it off. It smelled up the house, the mail from yesterday, and the herbs inside including the milk thistle. So everytime I go to take it I have to deal with the sickening smell. I'm thinking of putting them in a baggie, so I don't have to touch the bottle anymore! DH likes it. I think it's the cruelest joke ever on a pg woman!

[veganf]

So what is the deal with Zofran? I thought the way it worked was to relax the stomach muscles so that you don't vomit, but that it doesn't decrease nausea. But from the sounds of it people are taking it and having the nausea disappear too??
If it's really that amazing I'm tempted to ask a doctor for a script.

[ekblad9]

I haven't thrown up yet this time. It stops the nausa too. It's amazing! So amazing! I have waves but NOTHING like the last seven pregnancies.

[Spark]

Spark-
FYI on page 25 of Susun Weed's book she suggests drinking a cup or two of RRL tea per day to remedy morning sickness.
Thanks for all your help!

Lorette

Ooh, hey! I stand corrected. Sorry! It just seems so weak to me, but then I rarely do RRL because the tannins affect me. I guess if you're doing the infusion like she says to make the remedy more powerful.

Anyone doing the infusion?

[Spark]

Nettle has a lot of iron in it so really it would help, in a round about way, with morning sickness. When I'm anemic I'm more sick to my stomach and such.

That makes sense, too!

[ekblad9]

It's just my own personal theory, LOL. I'm not a dr and don't play one on TV ;)

[Spark]

So what is the deal with Zofran? I thought the way it worked was to relax the stomach muscles so that you don't vomit, but that it doesn't decrease nausea. But from the sounds of it people are taking it and having the nausea disappear too??


Yeah, it's job is to stop vomitting, but many people find it takes away nausea as well. I was on it during my last pregnancy & it was one item of a cocktail that seemed to keep me from vomitting as much as without it.

Things to remember about Zofran - it's really constipating. Some people have worse trouble than others. It's not great for the liver, which in Alternative Healing is thought to be a major culprit of M/S. And, then some women have trouble going off of it. It's not that it's addictive in any way, but after having that nausea/vomitting sensor turned off so thoroughly, it's almost like there's a week where I just felt AWFUL but, then my body found its equalibrium again.

My friend did not have HG, but her Dr. put it on it due to vomitting sometimes each day, sometimes not (she never even lost a pound!)... then she had trouble getting off of it. Whenever she'd try to stop, she'd feel like she was back in the 1st trimester, until finally she just decided to bite the bullet. She went off of it completely at about 32 weeks during vacation - vomitted like crazy and by 33 she felt totally fluffy once it was out of her system. It just seemed like a waste!

I can attest that the relief Zofran gives is really wonderful. And, only you can decide if you're to the point where you want to do that.

Amy, I'm so glad you're getting some relief! :hug

I'm officially 6 weeks. I'd been in the hospital (not admitted yet though) at this point in my last pregnancy. I feel GREAT. I have not had a SINGLE bit of nausea even! I have NEVER had a pregnancy like this. I've lost weight (6lbs to 25lbs) with each pregnancy... so far I've actually gained!!!!

I've been sticking with my same program:
This is what I'm on... (pretty much since my BFP)
150 mg of B-6 spread out into 3 doses (just cheap stuff from grocery store, I take vit C for absorbtion)
1 unisom at bedtime (along with one of the B-6's) - I take this only because of my history with severe Nausea and Vomitting in Pregnancy (NVP)
Enzymes before meals Simplexity Health Enzymes (https://www.simplexityhealth.com/products/specsheets/enzyme_spec.html)
Wild Yam Root in pill form 3x per day PLUS by Mannatech (http://www.purenhealthy.com/Mannatech_PLUS_p/man-1005.htm)
Milk Thistle 3x per day
Extra folic acid (800 mcg total)
Probiotics (Kefir)
Water with lemon
Flax Seed Oil (this isn't really NVP prevention)

[veganf]

Haven't gotten my wild yam yet, I'm not doing any "enzymes", and I'm only doing milk thistle 2x per day, and only 1/2 a Unisom at bedtime. Otherwise I'm doing pretty much the same routine as you, plus dandelion root 2x per day...
...and I feel like crap...sigh.

[Spark]

Ugh, VeganF, I'm so sorry you feel like crap. :( I wish I could bottle how good I feel & pass it around! Or just take a day of crap feeling off your hands! :hug

[Spark]

Okay, so if I had more energy, I think try to compute this -- am I the only one who got any amount of relief from the natural remedies? Why do we think this is -- pre-pregnancy stuff? Maybe not. Immediate herbs (and unisom) upon BFP? I think that might be the key. Most of the research suggests that starting upong BFP is the best way to treat recurrent M/S.

And, I have to say, I'm so sorry more of you haven't gotten the repreive that I have!!!! :(

[mchalehm]

And, then some women have trouble going off of it. It's not that it's addictive in any way, but after having that nausea/vomitting sensor turned off so thoroughly, it's almost like there's a week where I just felt AWFUL but, then my body found its equalibrium again.

My friend did not have HG, but her Dr. put it on it due to vomitting sometimes each day, sometimes not (she never even lost a pound!)... then she had trouble getting off of it. Whenever she'd try to stop, she'd feel like she was back in the 1st trimester, until finally she just decided to bite the bullet. She went off of it completely at about 32 weeks during vacation - vomitted like crazy and by 33 she felt totally fluffy once it was out of her system. It just seemed like a waste!


Interesting, Spark. I've never heard this and my experience has not reflected it.

[countrybound]

So what is the deal with Zofran? I thought the way it worked was to relax the stomach muscles so that you don't vomit, but that it doesn't decrease nausea. But from the sounds of it people are taking it and having the nausea disappear too??
If it's really that amazing I'm tempted to ask a doctor for a script.

I haven't thrown up yet this time. It stops the nausa too. It's amazing! So amazing! I have waves but NOTHING like the last seven pregnancies.

I talked to my doc the day I found out I was pregnant ( It was actually an appt. for my post D&C). One of the issues my doctor had with my Miscarriage was that I had taken milk thistle and dandelion root to get rid of the morning sickness. She said she wasn't going to say it caused my MC but she wasn't going to deny it either. She was in limbo with herbs.

Now that I found out about Zofran I asked her if she'd give me some when my morning sickness kicked in since I wouldn't be taken herbs anymore (I know it most likely didn't cause my MC, but I don't want to risk it again). She ended up writing me a prescription that day so that I could stock up on them. We're military and Tricare will only pay for 15 a month since they're so expensive. She told me to cut them in half. I really hope it works for me, I've heard nothing but good about it.

[ekblad9]

I'm telling you I'd be in a world of hurt without the Zofron right now. I feel icky still but WAY better than I have in the past (in bed 24/7 for 12 - 14 wks). I"m functional, at least. Just very tired and I feel like I"m car sick. No throwing up, though, and I can eat.

[Spark]

Interesting, Spark. I've never heard this and my experience has not reflected it.

I should have said, I don't think most women experience Zofran like that, but I did to some extent, my friend seemed to even more though. Here's threads over at the HelpHer forums that mentions Zofran withdrawl. I think it really varies woman to woman - http://forums.helpher.org/viewtopic.php?t=27605&highlight=zofran+withdraw and here http://forums.helpher.org/viewtopic.php?t=25530&highlight=zofran+addictive

But, I REALLY really think if you're bad enough off to need Zofran, then it's best to take it & be able to get nutrition & liquids in your system than not. If you're one of the few to deal with withdrawl, then so be it, at least you & your babe lived!

[Spark]

I'm telling you I'd be in a world of hurt without the Zofron right now. I feel icky still but WAY better than I have in the past (in bed 24/7 for 12 - 14 wks). I"m functional, at least. Just very tired and I feel like I"m car sick. No throwing up, though, and I can eat.

Since we're talking meds, you could try adding something else to the Zofran. Like VeganF said, as far as I know, it is meant more for stopping vomitting than for nausea. Are you still taking B-6? Sometimes a B-6, Zofran and Benadryl or Meclizine are a successful combo. Just depends on what you need. Here's a list of protocols for HG, you might find soemthing helpful there: http://forums.helpher.org/viewtopic.php?t=6140

:hug I'm glad you're functioning. That's so great! Hope you feel better and better. :hug

[ekblad9]

I'm continueing with my protein, b6, herbs and such as well as the Zofron. I'm so grateful to be able to eat and drink. I think mostly I'm tired but that's not going anywhere anytime soon. ;) I think I'll be a lot better off this time. If I can keep up with basics and still care for the kids and eat and drink then I'm happy. No extras, just basics. :)

[samuelsmom]

I'm in Canton! Not far from you ladies! :)

I'm in Toledo, but I WANT to live in Ann Arbor! (We actually make the drive once a month or so just to go to Trader Joe's, LOL! and of course stop at Tree City Diapers just to drool over their cool stuff.) Sorry, back to topic at hand:

I found that when the smell of cooking dinner is overwhelming, if I snack on cold fresh pineapple (other fruit works, too, but pineapple seems to be the best) I can handle the food, but otherwise, I don't even want to eat what I've made.

[mchalehm]

I just have to vent for a minute--why is it that, no matter how I feel during the day, I always feel HORRIBLE around bedtime? Seriously, I can hardly imagine getting up to go up to bed. I'm so nauseated and I have the worst heartburn. And I've been okay most of the day today. But it's just impossible to get to bedtime!

It doesn't even seem to matter when I go to bed...I thought maybe it was tiredness as the evening wore on but it's like my body knows I'm headed to bed soon and starts amping up the m/s!

[veganf]

Okay, so if I had more energy, I think try to compute this -- am I the only one who got any amount of relief from the natural remedies? Why do we think this is -- pre-pregnancy stuff? Maybe not. Immediate herbs (and unisom) upon BFP? I think that might be the key. Most of the research suggests that starting upong BFP is the best way to treat recurrent M/S.

And, I have to say, I'm so sorry more of you haven't gotten the repreive that I have!!!! :(

Well, I DID start the dandelion and milk thistle and B6 pretty much immediately. It was a few days after I got my + test, but heck I wasn't even due for my period yet.
I still haven't gotten my wild yam in the mail. I didn't feel like taking my Unisom last night, and it was a good thing because Nate was up for an hour (which never happens) in the middle of the night and needed me, and with the Unisom I can barely get up to pee. So I guess I somehow KNEW I'd need to be conscious last night.

[ekblad9]

Last night I was on the bathroom floor about to throw up and wishing I was dead. I managed to get one of the Zofron down (and I prayed I wouldn't throw it back up) and within about 10 minutes I felt much better. Within and hour I was able to snack and drink some tea. I am so grateful for this medication. I just hope it doesn't hurt the baby (yes, I'll say that ten thousand times throughout my pregnancy. LOL).

I know I feel more sick when I'm tired so maybe that's the bedtime/m/s link?

[veganf]

Last night I was on the bathroom floor about to throw up and wishing I was dead. I managed to get one of the Zofron down (and I prayed I wouldn't throw it back up) and within about 10 minutes I felt much better.

Wow, I am jealous. :(

[Spark]

I am so grateful for this medication. I just hope it doesn't hurt the baby (yes, I'll say that ten thousand times throughout my pregnancy. LOL).

:hug I can totally understand the worries. When I was on it during my last pregnancy, they hadn't studied it for use during pregnancy. :eek Just go reference Dr. Hale's book... maybe tape the excerpt for Zofran on your perscription bottle. (I linked to it earlier in this looong thread... maybe we're ready for a new thread DEALING WITH MORNING SICKNESS since this one was more about starting treatment before it hit).

VeganF, I hope you get some GOOD relief. :hug

[veganf]

Barely keeping water down today. I broke down and called my midwife just to see if she or any of her fellow midwives have any tricks up their sleeves I haven't tried yet. And she said not to hesitate to have my primary care doctor refer me for IV fluids if necessary. She doesn't like Zofran, but agrees that if someone goes a few days consuming nothing, then it's handy to have some just to get a break to get some liquid and nutrients into the body. So we'll see how the rest of the weekend goes and I'll decide whether to go see my doctor next week. :(

[ktbug]

ahem

:broc:

it works

that is all

[mrs rockstar]

I just have to vent for a minute--why is it that, no matter how I feel during the day, I always feel HORRIBLE around bedtime? Seriously, I can hardly imagine getting up to go up to bed. I'm so nauseated and I have the worst heartburn. And I've been okay most of the day today. But it's just impossible to get to bedtime!

It doesn't even seem to matter when I go to bed...I thought maybe it was tiredness as the evening wore on but it's like my body knows I'm headed to bed soon and starts amping up the m/s!

I feel this way too. I'm a little queasy here and there throughout the day but right before bed? UGH. My whole torso burns from the heartburn/gas and I can only get relief from laying with my head flat on the couch and butt up in air, knees under me. Imagine my husband's face coming home to me in that position after a long day at work :dizzy:

[ekblad9]

New thread http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?p=9761208#post9761208

[moodyred01]

Just wanted to say that I began taking the milk thistle twice daily for 3 months prior to ttc and began taking it 3 times a day when pregnancy was confirmed at 10dpo. Morning sickness began at 6 weeks and had worsened to the point of not keeping anything down by 7 weeks.

So I guess the milk thistle by itself was not enough to prevent the severe n/v for me.

I've also tried many of the other suggested remedies and they just don't do anything for me. :shrug


I was really hoping this was going to work this time, darn it! :p