This article was written by a pharmacist working at the Pharmacy Department - Vinmec Ha Long International General Hospital.
Motion sickness is a normal response of the body to abnormal changes. The severity of motion sickness depends on various factors, including pregnancy. Some women may only experience motion sickness during pregnancy, while others who have had motion sickness before may find it worsens during pregnancy.
1. Non-medical measures to prevent motion sickness for pregnant women
Pregnant women are a special group that requires great caution when using medication, as drugs can cross the placenta and affect the fetus. To alleviate motion sickness in pregnant women, the following "non-medication" tips can be applied:
- Look into the distance at the horizon or at stationary objects far away.
- Talk to those around you or listen to music.
- Use a U-shaped neck pillow or headrest to avoid unnecessary movements for your head.
- The seat should be reclined as much as possible. Choose a suitable seat:
- If traveling by car, sit in the front seat or in rows higher up rather than in the back rows.
- If flying, sit near the wings of the airplane to reduce shaking.
- If traveling by boat, choose a seat on the lower deck or in the cabin.
- Ensure the space is well-ventilated (open windows or use air conditioning), avoid strong smells, and avoid heat.
- If signs of motion sickness occur while traveling, stop the vehicle, get out, and take a short walk.
- Avoid reading, watching movies, or focusing on phone screens while traveling.
- Avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy meals, or eating too much before traveling.
- Eating ginger candies or acupressure may also help reduce nausea and motion sickness.
2. Which motion sickness medications are safe for pregnant women? What precautions should be taken when using motion sickness medication during pregnancy to ensure safety?
Some pregnant women may still experience significant motion sickness despite using the tips mentioned above. There are several medications that can help prevent and treat motion sickness, such as Dimenhydrinate, Meclizine, Diphenhydramine, Scopolamine, and Promethazine.
However, not all of these medications are safe for pregnant women. Below are some medications that can be considered for use during pregnancy:
The most common side effect of most of the above-mentioned motion sickness medications is drowsiness, so they should not be used while driving.
Additionally, to reduce nausea and vomiting (the most common symptoms of motion sickness), pregnant women may consider using Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine): 10-25 mg per dose, 3-4 times a day.
For prescription medications, it is essential to follow a doctor's prescription. For over-the-counter (OTC) medications, it is important to read the product's instructions carefully to ensure there are no contraindications, proper dosages, and possible side effects.
During pregnancy, it is crucial for the mother to monitor her health and the fetus’s development through regular prenatal check-ups, along with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. When using medications, especially if the mother has any pre-existing conditions, consultation and examination from an obstetrician is necessary to prevent any negative effects from the illness or medication on the pregnancy. If any complications arise, the pregnant woman should be taken to the hospital for early examination and treatment to minimize any undesirable outcomes.
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