Nausea is very common in the early weeks of pregnancy.
Some women are sick (vomit) and some have a feeling of sickness without being sick. Some feel sick in the mornings, some at other times, some all day long. The reasons are not fully understood, but hormonal changes in the first three months are probably one of the causes of morning sickness. If you experience nausea, it usually disappears when you're around 12 to 14 weeks pregnant.
Nausea can be one of the most trying problems in early pregnancy. It comes at a time when you may be feeling tired and emotional, and when many people around you may not realise you're pregnant and expect you to be your normal self.
How to avoid nausea and morning sickness
The following tips may help to prevent nausea.
- if you feel sick first thing in the morning, give yourself time to get up slowly - if possible, eat something like dry toast or a plain biscuit
- get plenty of rest and sleep whenever you can, as feeling tired can make the sickness worse
- eat small amounts of food often rather than several large meals, but don’t stop eating
- drink plenty of fluids, such as water
- ask the people close to you for extra support and help
- distract yourself as much as you can, often the nausea gets worse the more you think about it
- avoid the foods and smells that make you feel worse: it helps if someone else can cook but if this is not possible, go for bland, non-greasy foods, such as baked potatoes, pasta and milk puddings, which are simple to prepare
- wear comfortable clothes: tight waistbands can make you feel worse
Find out more about safe treatments for morning sickness.
When to get help
If you're being sick all the time and can't keep food down, tell your midwife or doctor. Some pregnant women experience severe nausea and vomiting. This condition is known as hyperemesis gravidarum and needs specialist treatment.
Healthtalk online has videos of women talking about their experiences of nausea and morning sickness.
