Publications
Morning sickness is a very common pregnancy side-effect, and might be one of the things that make you suspect you are pregnant. It often begins between 6 and 8 weeks, and the term morning sickness is pretty inaccurate as it can strike any time of the day and can last the entire day.
You might feel like you’re going to puke up your liver, but the baby won’t be affected by the vomiting. Do make sure the stay well hydrated, though.
It usually only lasts for the first 3 months, and in the second trimester you should feel better. But some women suffer from morning sickness throughout their pregnancy
What causes morning sickness?
Some factors are:
Feel better
When to call your doctor
How long did your nausea last for? Did you have a specific time when it would occur?
You might feel like you’re going to puke up your liver, but the baby won’t be affected by the vomiting. Do make sure the stay well hydrated, though.
It usually only lasts for the first 3 months, and in the second trimester you should feel better. But some women suffer from morning sickness throughout their pregnancy
What causes morning sickness?
Some factors are:
- Increased oestrogen levels
- Lower blood sugar during early pregnancy.
- The rapidly rising serum levels of a hormone called HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) secreted by the fetus.
- Emotional stress, travelling, or some foods can aggravate the problem.
- Food or smell aversions
Feel better
- Lemon and ginger do help – try lemon herbal tea or ginger biscuits – or suck lemon sweets.
- Drink plenty of liquid between snacks – just small sips – either plain water, or with a bit of lime. Soda water also seems to help.
- Eat small snacks frequently throughout the day if you can’t face a big meal.
- Eat fresh fruit and fresh salads (but eliminate the fruits and vegetables that make you nauseous). Make sure all fruit and salads are well washed.
- Stay away from strong-smelling food, caffeine, smoky environment or areas with other strong smells (such as petrol) – these will make you feel worse.
- If you are really not coping speak to your doctor about medication – either conventional or natural that will not harm your unborn baby.
When to call your doctor
- Nausea or vomiting does not improve beyond the 4th month.
- You vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
- You vomit more than 3 times per day, can’t keep food or liquid down, or are feeling ill
How long did your nausea last for? Did you have a specific time when it would occur?
