pregnancy with nausea

Overview

Pregnancy nausea is a feeling of being sick or actually vomiting during pregnancy. It is often called 'morning sickness' even though it can happen at any time of day.

Yes, it is very common. Around 7 out of 10 pregnant women have nausea or vomiting.

It can affect any pregnant person. You are more likely to have it if you are pregnant with twins or if you had nausea in a previous pregnancy.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling sick to your stomach throughout the day
• Vomiting, especially in the morning or after eating
• Strong disgust for certain foods or smells, like coffee, eggs, or meat
• Increased saliva in your mouth
• Feeling tired or dizzy when you stand up

Symptoms in children

• This condition affects people who are pregnant, not children.

Symptoms in older adults

• This condition affects people who are pregnant, not older adults.

Causes

Main causes

• Hormone changes in early pregnancy, especially a hormone called hCG
• A sensitive stomach or sense of smell
• Low blood sugar or changes in blood pressure
• Your stomach emptying more slowly than usual

Risk factors

• First pregnancy
• Nausea or vomiting with a previous pregnancy
• Being pregnant with twins or more
• A history of motion sickness or migraine headaches
• Having a mother or sister who had severe pregnancy nausea

When to see a doctor

Diagnosis

Your healthcare provider can usually tell that you have pregnancy nausea by talking to you about your symptoms. They will also make sure you are not dehydrated and may weigh you or check your urine.

Tests that may be done

• A physical exam and discussion of your symptoms
• A urine test to check for dehydration or ketones
• Blood tests, if your provider wants to check your electrolytes or other health measures

What to expect at your appointment

At your visit, your provider will ask when the nausea started, how often you vomit, and what makes it better or worse. They will work with you to find safe ways to ease your symptoms and tell you what to watch for.

Treatment

Treatment for pregnancy nausea focuses on keeping you comfortable, hydrated, and well-nourished. For most people, simple home remedies are enough. If the nausea is severe, there are medical options that are safe to use during pregnancy.

Self-care at home

• Eat small meals every 1-2 hours instead of three big ones
• Keep a few crackers or plain biscuits by your bed and eat one or two before getting up
• Ask someone else to cook strong-smelling foods, or open a window while you cook
• Sip sugar-free clear drinks like water, broth, or ginger tea between meals
• Suck on ice chips or a slice of lemon to calm your stomach
• Get plenty of rest and avoid getting too tired

Medical treatments

If lifestyle changes are not enough, your healthcare provider may talk to you about taking a vitamin supplement or an anti-nausea medicine that is considered safe during pregnancy. Do not take any medicine, vitamin, or herbal product without talking to your provider first.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for pregnancy nausea. If you need hospital care, it will be for fluids and medications given by a healthcare team.

Living with this condition

Feeling sick every day can be hard and tiring. Give yourself permission to rest and take things one day at a time. Many women find that their nausea improves after the first trimester.

Lifestyle tips

• Get up slowly in the morning and avoid sudden movements
• Eat a snack like a banana or whole-grain toast before bedtime
• Brush your teeth after meals, but if that makes you gag, rinse your mouth instead
• Keep a small bag or container in your purse and car, just in case
• Wear comfortable clothing that is not too tight around your belly

Diet and exercise

Eat whatever sounds appealing, but try to keep it bland and low-fat. Drink fluids throughout the day. Gentle exercise such as short walks can help your digestion and mood. Stop if it makes you feel worse.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Feeling constantly sick can affect your mood and mental health. It is normal to feel frustrated, worried, or sad. Talk to your partner, friends, or doctor about how you feel. If you ever feel hopeless or that you might harm yourself, get help right away — call your local emergency number or a mental health crisis line.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent pregnancy nausea, but some measures may help. For example, taking a prenatal vitamin before you get pregnant and while you are pregnant may help. Also, try to eat a protein-rich snack before going to bed at night.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine that prevents pregnancy nausea. However, your provider can tell you which vaccines are recommended for your health and your baby's health during pregnancy.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for pregnancy nausea. Your healthcare provider will follow your health at your prenatal appointments and ask about any symptoms you have.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration, which can make you feel dizzy and weak
• Loss of important minerals like sodium and potassium (electrolyte imbalance)
• Weight loss and poor nutrition
• Hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of nausea and vomiting that can require hospital care
• Emotional distress and a hard time doing your normal life

Long-term outlook

For most women, pregnancy nausea passes by the end of the first trimester. Even if it lasts longer, there are safe ways to reduce it. You and your baby will benefit from getting help early. With the right support, you can get through this.

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