Morning sickness is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of early pregnancy. Despite its name, it can occur at any time of the day, not just in the morning. Affecting up to 80% of pregnant women, this condition usually starts around the sixth week of pregnancy and typically eases by 12 to 14 weeks.

Morning sickness refers to the nausea and vomiting experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is believed to be linked to rising levels of pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen. For most women, it is a sign of healthy hormonal changes. However, in some cases, nausea and vomiting become severe—a condition known as Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). This requires medical attention as it can lead to dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.

The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

• Hormonal Changes: Higher levels of hCG and estrogen are associated with nausea.
• Heightened Sense of Smell: An increased sensitivity to smells may act as a protective mechanism to avoid harmful foods.
• Family history of morning sickness.
• Tendency to experience migraines or motion sickness.
• Presence of Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria linked to stomach ulcers.
• Carrying multiples, such as twins or triplets, due to elevated hormone levels.

Tips for Managing Morning Sickness

• Keep dry snacks, like crackers, by your bedside and eat a few before getting out of bed.
• Get up slowly to avoid sudden movements that can worsen nausea.
• Avoid letting your stomach become too empty or too full, as both can trigger nausea.
• Focus on light, bland foods.
• Drink fluids between meals instead of with meals to reduce the feeling of fullness.
• Avoid rich, spicy, or heavily flavored dishes that may worsen symptoms.
• Cold or room-temperature meals, such as salads or cold meats, can be less nauseating than hot, aromatic meals.
• Ginger is a natural remedy for nausea. You can try ginger tea, ginger ale, or ginger tablets.
• Lemon can also help.
• Strong odors from cooking, garbage, coffee, or petrol are common triggers.
• Choose a protein-rich, low-glycemic snack before sleep to help maintain stable blood sugar levels overnight. Options include yoghurt, milk, or a slice of wholegrain bread.

Snack Ideas to Keep Nausea at Bay

Keep simple, easy-to-digest foods on hand to snack on during the day:

• Plain crackers, rice cakes, or corn thins.
• Fresh fruit.
• Toast or pikelets.
• Plain cereal or rice.
• Small portions of pasta.

Morning sickness can feel overwhelming, but remember that it’s temporary and often a sign of a healthy pregnancy. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you’re struggling to keep food or fluids down.