16566 Morning Sickness Nausea And Vomiting Of Pregnancy

Overview

Morning sickness is nausea and vomiting that happens during pregnancy, usually in the first few months. It is a common condition and is not harmful to you or your baby in most cases.

Yes, it is very common. About 7 in 10 pregnant women have nausea, vomiting, or both during early pregnancy.

It affects pregnant women, especially in the first trimester. Some women have it worse than others, including those carrying twins or multiples.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Nausea that comes and goes
• Vomiting, sometimes without warning
• Feeling sick when you smell certain foods, perfumes, or smoke
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling very tired

Symptoms in children

• Not applicable – morning sickness happens only during pregnancy.

Symptoms in older adults

• Not applicable – morning sickness happens only during pregnancy.

Causes

Main causes

• Hormone changes during early pregnancy, especially a hormone called hCG
• High levels of estrogen, another pregnancy hormone
• A more sensitive stomach or sense of smell
• The exact cause is not fully known, but these factors are believed to play a role

Risk factors

• Being pregnant for the first time
• Having a history of motion sickness or migraines
• Having a mother or sister who had severe morning sickness
• Being pregnant with twins or multiples
• Having a high body weight

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You cannot keep any fluids down for more than 12 hours
• You are showing signs of dehydration
• You are losing weight without trying
• You feel confused, faint, or extremely weak

Book a routine appointment if:

• Your nausea or vomiting makes it hard to work, eat, or do daily activities
• You are worried about your symptoms or how you feel
• Symptoms last beyond 14 weeks
• You have trouble taking your prenatal vitamins

Diagnosis

Your doctor or midwife will usually diagnose morning sickness by listening to your symptoms and asking about when they started. There is no single test.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test to check for dehydration or ketones
• Blood test to check for imbalances in your body's electrolytes
• An ultrasound (if needed) to confirm how many babies you are carrying or to rule out other conditions

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask how often you feel sick, whether you are able to keep food and drink down, and how your overall health is. They will offer practical advice and support. In most cases, you will not need any special tests.

Treatment

Treatment for morning sickness focuses on soothing your stomach, keeping you hydrated, and making sure you get enough nutrition. For most women, self-care is enough. If symptoms are severe, your healthcare provider can suggest safe options to help you feel better.

Self-care at home

• Eat small, frequent meals instead of big ones — an empty stomach can make nausea worse.
• Keep plain crackers or toast by your bed and eat a little before getting up.
• Avoid strong smells, greasy or spicy food, and other triggers.
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, clear broth, or diluted juice, in small sips throughout the day.
• Try ginger tea or sucking on ginger candy — ginger can help settle the stomach.
• Get fresh air and rest when you feel tired.
• Eat bland foods like rice, bananas, bread, and yoghurt.

Medical treatments

If self-care is not enough, talk to your doctor or midwife. They may suggest a safe anti-sickness medicine or a vitamin supplement. Always ask your healthcare provider before taking any medicine during pregnancy, even something over-the-counter.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for morning sickness.

Living with this condition

Live with morning sickness by planning your day around the times you feel best. Eat before you get out of bed, carry a snack with you, and avoid triggers like strong cooking smells. Rest when you can and don't push yourself.

Lifestyle tips

• Get plenty of sleep and rest during the day.
• Avoid foods and smells that make you nauseous.
• Eat a small snack every 1 to 2 hours.
• Stay hydrated by sipping fluids often.
• Take a short walk in fresh air if you feel up to it.

Diet and exercise

Eat small, bland meals that are gentle on your stomach, and drink plenty of fluids. Light exercise like walking or prenatal yoga can improve your mood, but rest when you need to. If you cannot keep food down for more than a day, contact your healthcare provider.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling sick all the time can be exhausting and stressful. It is normal to feel low, frustrated, or worried. These feelings are real and important. Talk to your doctor or midwife — they can offer support and guidance.

Prevention

Morning sickness cannot always be prevented, but some women find that starting pregnancy well-hydrated and eating a balanced diet can help. Avoiding known triggers and eating small frequent meals may reduce the severity.

Vaccines

Not applicable for morning sickness.

Screening programmes

There is no screening test for morning sickness. Your doctor will check your health and make sure you are well.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe dehydration, which can make you feel dizzy, weak, and unwell
• Weight loss and poor nutrition
• A more serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which may require hospital care
• Constant vomiting can also cause problems with your teeth and esophagus due to stomach acid

Long-term outlook

For most women, morning sickness goes away by the second trimester. With rest, self-care, and support from your healthcare team, it is often very manageable. Even in severe cases, there are safe and effective ways to help you feel better, and your baby is likely to be healthy.

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