Morning Sickness (Pregnancy Nausea)
Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, typically in the first trimester.
Overview
Morning sickness is nausea and vomiting that occurs during pregnancy, most commonly during the first trimester. Despite its name, it can happen at any time of day or night. It affects up to 80% of pregnant women and is thought to be caused by rising hormone levels. While uncomfortable, morning sickness is usually not harmful to the mother or baby and often improves after the first 12-14 weeks of pregnancy.
Common Age
Childbearing years
Prevalence
Affects 70-80% of pregnant women
Duration
Usually weeks 6-14, can last entire pregnancy
Common Symptoms
- Nausea (feeling sick to your stomach)
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Food aversions
- Increased sensitivity to smells
- Excessive saliva
- Fatigue
- Symptoms often worse in the morning
Possible Causes
- Rising hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) hormone levels
- Increased estrogen levels
- Enhanced sense of smell
- Sensitive stomach during pregnancy
- Stress and fatigue
- First pregnancy or multiple pregnancies
- History of motion sickness or migraines
Note: These are potential causes. A healthcare provider can help determine the specific cause in your case.
Quick Self-Care Tips
- 1Eat small, frequent meals (every 2-3 hours)
- 2Keep crackers by your bed to eat before getting up
- 3Avoid spicy, fatty, or strong-smelling foods
- 4Stay hydrated with small sips of water
- 5Try ginger (tea, candies, or supplements)
- 6Get plenty of rest
- 7Avoid lying down immediately after eating
- 8Try vitamin B6 supplements (with doctor approval)
Disclaimer: These are general wellness suggestions, not medical treatment recommendations. They may help manage symptoms but should not replace professional medical care.
Detailed Treatment & Solutions
1EATING STRATEGIES
Eat bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, rice, and bananas. Have a small snack before bed and keep crackers by your bed for morning. Eat protein with each meal to stabilize blood sugar.
2GINGER REMEDIES
Try ginger tea, ginger ale (real ginger), ginger candies, or ginger supplements (250mg four times daily). Ginger has been shown to be safe and effective for pregnancy nausea.
3ACUPRESSURE
Wear sea-bands or press on the P6 acupressure point (inner wrist, about three finger-widths below the palm).
4AROMATHERAPY
Sniff lemon, peppermint, or ginger essential oils. Keep cut lemons handy to smell when nausea strikes.
5HYDRATION
If you can't keep water down, try ice chips, popsicles, or small sips of ginger ale. Drink between meals rather than with meals.
6VITAMIN B6
Take 10-25mg of vitamin B6 three times daily (with doctor approval). This is often recommended as a first-line treatment.
Important: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen. The solutions above are for educational purposes and may not be suitable for everyone.
Risk Factors
- First pregnancy
- Multiple pregnancies (twins)
- History of motion sickness
- Migraines
- Family history
Prevention
- Eating small, frequent meals
- Avoiding triggers
- Getting adequate rest
- Starting prenatal vitamins before pregnancy
When to See a Doctor
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following:
- You can't keep any food or liquids down for 24 hours
- You're losing weight
- You feel dizzy or faint
- Your urine is dark or you're urinating less
- You have severe vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum)
- You have fever or abdominal pain
Talk to a Healthcare Provider
If your symptoms are persistent, severe, or concerning, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
QIs morning sickness a sign of a healthy pregnancy?
Studies suggest that women who experience morning sickness may have lower rates of miscarriage. However, not having morning sickness doesn't mean anything is wrong with your pregnancy.
QWhen should morning sickness stop?
For most women, symptoms improve by weeks 12-14. However, some women experience nausea throughout pregnancy, and this is also considered normal.
Related Conditions
Acid Reflux / Heartburn
A burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus.
Nausea
An uneasy feeling in the stomach that may come before vomiting.
Dehydration
When your body loses more fluids than you take in.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions you have regarding a medical condition. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Information last reviewed: January 2026
This page provides educational information only. It is not medical advice.