Pregnancy morning sickness

Morning sickness is a feeling of sickness and nausea, sometimes with vomiting. Contrary to its name, it can happen at any time of the day.

Morning sickness is a feeling of sickness and nausea, sometimes with vomiting. Contrary to its name, it can happen at any time of the day, but generally when you haven't eaten for a long period, or after a night's sleep. Feelings of nausea are most common in the first trimester and then usually lessen.

The main cause is low blood sugar, but pregnancy hormones may irritate the stomach directly.

Food will help you avoid feeling nauseous, so eat little and often.
Eat high-carbohydrate foods such as wholemeal bread, potatoes, rice, and cereals, and avoid fried food and coffee, which trigger nausea.
Keep glucose sweets in your car, desk, or handbag.
To prevent sickness in the morning, put a glass of water and a plain biscuit by your bed at night, and have them as a snack 15 minutes before you get up.
Cigarette smoke and other strong smells may also trigger nausea.
Drink extra fluids such as fruit juice or skimmed milk - if you can keep them down.

In its severe form (called hyperemesis gravidarum), vomiting can deplete you of fluid and minerals, leading to low blood pressure. This may be harmful to your baby. Tell your doctor if you vomit more than three times a day for three days. In very severe cases, you may need to go to hospital for treatment to replace the fluids that you have lost.

Dr Miriam Stoppard

Posted 04.05.2011

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See more in the dossier: Pregnancy complaints guide