Morning sickness (known as hyperemesis) is something that many pregnant women experience. There’s no doubt that it’s one of the least enjoyable aspects of pregnancy. The feeling of nausea usually starts in the morning and then tapers off later in the day.

Expectant mothers most often begin to feel queasiness around the sixth week of their pregnancy. The symptoms, which include vomiting, usually peak around the eighth week of pregnancy and then start to subside during week twelve. Although the exact cause of morning sickness is not known, it is believed that it is due to a change in estrogen levels, low blood sugar, a heightened sense of smell, excess stomach acid, and possibly other factors. Although morning sickness is difficult to deal with, it is considered a sign of a healthy pregnancy by many doctors. If morning sickness is truly interfering with your daily life, you should consider treatment. However, most women will be able to deal with it without medication and just some good advice.

Here’s ten ways to help reduce the effects of morning sickness:

• Instead of eating 3 big meals a day, break them down into 6 smaller meals to prevent queasiness

• Avoid fried and fatty foods

• Drink lots of clear liquids like ginger ale or ginger tea

• Smell or taste a fresh lemon (this really helps!)

• Eat simple carbohydrates like white rice, plain mashed potatoes and dry toast which are digested easily

• Get plenty of rest, but don’t take a nap right after a meal as it can make nausea worse

• Wear loose and comfortable clothing at all times

• Wristbands that use acupressure pulse points can help fight off nausea

• Avoid strong scents and foods that could make you nauseous

• Talk to your doctor about taking vitamin B-6 and other supplements to prevent nausea