Morning sickness is the nausea and vomiting experienced by many women during pregnancy. It affects between 70 to 85 per cent of pregnant women. Show
Although it is often called morning sickness you may feel sick at any time of the day. Many women (about 80 per cent) feel sick throughout the day. Morning sickness is associated with changes in hormones levels during pregnancy. Some women are lucky enough to not be affected by morning sickness and in others the condition can be so severe that they need to be hospitalised. Signs and symptomsSymptoms of morning sickness typically include nausea and vomiting, which often appear around week 5 or 6 of your pregnancy. The symptoms can worsen at around 9 weeks but tend to improve by weeks 16 to 18. For 15 to 20 per cent of pregnant women, symptoms continue until the third trimester and for 5 per cent of women they last until the birth. Will morning sickness harm my baby?Nausea and vomiting will not impact on your chances of having a healthy pregnancy. Interestingly, women who experience mild morning sickness tend to have fewer miscarriages and stillbirths when compared to those who don’t experience morning sickness. A small number of women may experience more severe nausea and prolonged vomiting that requires medical attention. Speak to your midwife or doctor if you experience:
Managing morning sicknessAlthough we are uncertain about the cause of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, we do know that changing your diet may relieve your discomfort. Stay hydrated
Try gingerThere is evidence that ginger works as a herbal remedy and can help to settle nausea in pregnant women. In many cultures ginger is used to relieve indigestion. Ginger can be taken in several forms:
You can make your own ginger cordial by simmering a large crushed ginger root and two cups of water for 20 minutes. Strain this, add 1 tablespoon of honey, refrigerate and use this as a cordial with mineral water. Choose healthy optionsAs your vomiting lessens, try more nourishing drinks:
Try small amounts of food
Low fat foodFoods low in fat may be easier to digest and will help to reduce discomfort from overeating. Include these foods in your diet:
Foods to avoidThese foods may upset your stomach:
Other helpful hints to manage morning sickness
More informationIf you have ongoing problems with morning sickness your doctor or midwife can provide you with a referral to a hospital dietitian. Where to get helpRemember
Acknowledgements This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions. Does drinking lots of water help with pregnancy nausea?Drinking enough fluids, especially if you're queasy, is particularly important since dehydration is one of the most serious consequences of morning sickness. Pregnant women should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of liquid daily. Many women find that water doesn't sit well with nausea.
What drinks help with pregnancy nausea?If you are vomiting continuously, it is very important to drink fluids, so that you don't become dehydrated. Drinks that contain sugar are better tolerated – sip a little bit every 15 minutes. Try sipping lemonade, cordial, electrolyte or glucose drinks, ginger beer, mineral or soda waters.
Can dehydration make pregnancy nausea worse?Dehydration during pregnancy can become dangerous for you and your baby. You may find it hard to consume six to eight glasses of water per day when you are nauseated; however, keep in mind that dehydration can increase nausea. Increased nausea is the second to the last thing you need during pregnancy morning sickness.
|