Hyperemesis gravidum (HG) is severe and continual nausea and vomiting in pregnancy – resulting in dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and malnutrition. It is both debilitating and incredibly frustrating for pregnant mothers. In past posts (here, here and here), I have shared evidence behind using B6, ginger and an acupuncture point called PC-6 for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. Now, promising new research shows that leisurely exercise before pregnancy can decrease the odds of HG in first-time pregnancies.
The study from Norway and the UK, to be published in August 2019’s Journal for Preventive Medicine, found a positive association between leisure-time physical activity (LTPA, generally defined as walking, dancing, gardening, hiking and swimming, among other everyday informal exercise) and lower odds of HG among first-time mothers. In fact, those doing no LTPA before pregnancy were found to have more than twice the odds of experiencing hyperemesis gravidum during pregnancy.
There is a lot of awareness now about the importance of maintaining fitness during pregnancy for the health of both mom and baby – this research should motivate mothers further to get physically active while they prepare to conceive as well. Intractable nausea and vomiting is something I would not wish upon anyone!
I hope you have found this helpful, and do let me know if you have any questions!
If you are hungry for more evidence-based information in your pregnancy, sign up for my free webinar: 7 Pregnancy Myths Debunked – and get the information you need to have a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your pregnant patients, please get in touch with us at support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
Disclaimer: The information and content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Please consult the Disclaimer and Terms of Use for full details.
References:
Owe, K. et al. (2019). Leisure-time physical activity before pregnancy and risk of hyperemesis gravidarum: a population-based cohort study. Preventative Medicine, 125: 49-54.