Managing Morning Sickness
Morning sickness isn’t pleasant, but you’ll be relieved to know that it’s common and usually normal during pregnancy.
Whilst your family and friends may not be aware of your pregnancy when you first begin to experience morning sickness, it can be helpful to talk to your GP or Obstetrician about your symptoms. Your GP or Obstetrician can monitor you and provide recommendations to improve your symptoms based on your health and lifestyle.
Please remember that any advice provided here is general and it is always advisable to speak to a doctor you trust about any specific concerns and your individual situation. If you want to speak to an Obstetrician, your GP can provide a referral to one of our doctors.
For further information regarding early pregnancy and the next steps, you may find it helpful to read our guide on what to do once you find out you’re pregnant.
Morning Sickness: the facts
The cause of morning sickness is not definitively known but could be associated with increased hormone levels, blood pressure variation and changes in metabolism.
Morning sickness usually develops around the fourth week of pregnancy and often resolves by the 14th week. However, some women continue to experience morning sickness into their second trimester and rarely, into the third trimester.
Although it doesn’t usually harm the woman or unborn child, severe morning sickness including hyperemesis gravidarum, or morning sickness that includes dehydration and weight loss, requires medical attention.
Whilst unpleasant, most women find morning sickness can be improved by treatment recommended by their GP or Obstetrician.
Who is at increased risk of morning sickness?
Morning sickness can affect anyone during pregnancy, however it is more likely to occur if:
- you have previously experienced nausea and vomiting from migraines, motion sickness or exposure to estrogen (such as the contraceptive pill) prior to pregnancy
- you have experienced morning sickness during a previous pregnancy
- you are pregnant with twins or other multiples
- you have a family history of morning sickness
Ways to prevent and manage morning sickness
Although it’s called morning sickness, nausea and vomiting can occur at any time of day. It’s important to discuss your symptoms with your GP or Obstetrician to develop a personalised management and treatment plan.
Women who are experiencing morning sickness may find it helpful to:
- eat smaller meals and avoid skipping meals
- try to remain hydrated by drinking small amounts more regularly
- avoid coffee and caffeinated tea and drinks
- avoid fatty, fried and spicy foods
- try ginger or peppermint which may improve nausea
- try to avoid drinks and foods that may aggravate your symptoms
Remember that your GP or Obstetrician is available to provide recommendations and treatment to improve your morning sickness.
For information on how to get a referral to one of our Obstetricians at Frances Perry House, visit www.francesperryhouse.com.au
