NVP Counselor
Date: 2004-04-04

Question:
I have had severe nausea for over two weeks now and have lost weight and am over 2 months pregnant. I cant stand soup and gatorade anymore and dont know what else i can try to eat. Toast, cheese, crackers with peanut butter are all bad (cause me to throw up)One thing i ate that was ok was oven baked herb salmon but i have no idea why and cant eat it everyday. I am at a loss as to how to try to eat because i am getting weak and have lost quite a bit of weight. Any advice would be great.

Answer:
Women suffering from NVP typically have great difficulty eating during their first trimester. What's more, people have different likes and dislikes when it comes to food.

We suggest that you eat a very small amount of any food or snack frequently (hourly, more or less). Continue this frequent "nibbling" (not more than a bite or two) during the night just to keep something in your stomach at all times. Avoid cooking. Liquids (a few sips) should be consumed half an hour before or after you eat -- not while you are eating.

For women who are unable to eat in the manner described above, we suggest a can of food supplement (such as Boost or Ensure) in a blender, diluted with ice cubes. This can be eaten like a slushy - one small spoonful at a time.

If NVP remains a major issue, not relieved by any of these methods, you should discuss it with your doctor. Safe, approved treatment is available. In Canada, Diclectin (Vitamin B6 and doxylamine succinate) is the only approved medication for NVP. There's lots of information on this website about Diclectin. A treatment algorithm is also included in the February 2002 Motherisk Update. Our NVP Helpline is also open Monday through Friday and can be reached by dialing 1-800-436-8477.