Pregnancy is an exciting and special time for many women, but it can also come with its own set of unique challenges. One of these is dealing with nausea and vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness however this name is likely inaccurate, as pregnant women can experience symptoms at any time of the day.

In this blog we will explore pregnancy sickness and share some tips to help.

What Causes Pregnancy Sickness?

The exact cause of pregnancy sickness is unknown, but it is believed that it may be related to hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, particularly the increase in oestrogen and progesterone levels. These hormonal changes can affect the digestive system, leading to nausea, vomiting, and a reduced appetite. It can also be triggered by certain smells, foods, or activities.

Pregnancy sickness has been found to affect up to 80% of women in the first trimester with most symptoms resolving between 12-14 weeks or pregnancy.

Pregnancy sickness typically begins around the sixth week of pregnancy (in the first trimester).  However, some women may experience it throughout their whole pregnancy and it can occur any time of the day, although it is frequently coined ‘morning sickness’.

What Does Pregnancy Sickness Feel Like?

Pregnancy sickness can vary from woman to woman, but common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Sensitivity to smells
• Heartburn

Tips to help with pregnancy sickness

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent pregnancy sickness, there are several tips and techniques that may help to alleviate symptoms slightly.

Eat small, frequent meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help keep your blood sugar levels stable and may reduce nausea.

Don’t let yourself get hungry: Hunger can cause nausea so it is important that you don’t get hungry. If you are struggling with nausea then try small bites of foods frequently.

Avoid triggers: Certain foods, smells, or activities may trigger your symptoms. Try to identify your triggers and avoid them if possible.

Try boiled sweets: Sucking on boiled sweets can help to reduce nausea and get rid of strange taste. Just be careful to not eat too many.

Stay hydrated: Dehydration can make nausea and vomiting worse. If you are struggling to drink, try cold drinks with ice as they can be easier to tolerate. You can also try drinking out of a closed cup if you are sensitive to smells.

Eating ice lollies or even ice can help with hydration and removing strange tastes. Just be careful as ice can be a choking hazard.

Rest: Fatigue can worsen pregnancy sickness, so be sure to get plenty of rest if you can and take breaks when you need to.

Try ginger: Ginger may help to reduce nausea in some mums. However it is important that if you decide to take ginger capsules that you speak with a health professional before doing so.

Acupressure: Some women find that acupressure, using wristbands with pressure point can help relieve nausea and vomiting.

Severe Pregnancy Sickness (Hyperemesis Gravidarum)

If you are experiencing severe pregnancy sickness, know that you are not alone. While many women experience some degree of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, some women may experience more intense symptoms that can have a significant impact on their quality of life.  It is felt that between 1-3% of women may be diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum.

It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing severe pregnancy sickness, as they can help you manage your symptoms and ensure that you and your baby are healthy. You may be prescribed medication to support and in more severe conditions hospital admission may be required due to risk or dehydration or poor weight gain. It is important to speak with a health professional if you are concerned.