Morning Sickness

Morning sickness refers to nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, and it can happen at any time of day.

Key Points

Commonality:
- Morning sickness is very common, affecting most pregnant women.
- About one-third experience vomiting.
Timing:
- It typically starts in the first month and can last until weeks 14 to 16 (the 3rd or 4th month).
- In some cases, it continues throughout pregnancy.
Baby’s Health:
- Morning sickness doesn’t harm the baby unless there is severe vomiting leading to weight loss.
Pregnancy Predictability:
- How you feel in one pregnancy doesn’t predict future pregnancies.

Causes

The exact cause isn’t fully known, but it may be due to hormonal changes or low blood sugar early in pregnancy.
Emotional stress, fatigue, and certain foods can worsen symptoms.
It’s more common with multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets).

Home Care Tips

Eat small meals:
- Try eating soda crackers or dry toast before getting out of bed in the morning and a small snack before bed.
Snack often:
- Avoid large meals. Eat every 1 to 2 hours and drink plenty of fluids.
Choose healthy foods:
- Focus on high-protein and complex carbohydrates like peanut butter, nuts, cheese, yogurt, and cottage cheese.
- Avoid fatty or salty foods.
Try ginger:
- Ginger products like ginger tea, candy, or soda may help reduce nausea.
Acupressure:
- Wristbands or acupuncture may offer relief.
- Consult your provider first.
Air circulation:
- Keep air flowing to reduce smells.
Prenatal vitamins:
- Take them at night and increase vitamin B6 with foods like whole grains and legumes.
- Ask your provider about supplements.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Persistent symptoms:
- If nausea and vomiting continue beyond the 4th month, or remedies aren’t working.
Severe symptoms:
- Vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds, vomiting more than 3 times a day, or not being able to keep food or fluids down.
Dehydration signs:
- Dark urine, infrequent urination, or excessive weight loss.

What to Expect at Your Provider Visit

Your provider will do a physical exam and check for signs of dehydration.
Expect questions about your nausea, vomiting, diet, stress levels, and any other symptoms like headaches or abdominal pain.

Tests Your Provider Might Conduct