Morning Sickness During Pregnancy: Causes, Remedies, and When to Seek Help

Morning sickness is one of the earliest and most common signs of pregnancy, affecting up to 80% of expecting mothers. Despite its name, nausea and vomiting can strike at any time of the day. Understanding why it occurs and how to manage it can help make your pregnancy journey more comfortable and less overwhelming.

What is Morning Sickness?

Morning sickness refers to the nausea and vomiting that typically occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy, usually starting around week 6 and peaking around week 9. For most women, it improves or disappears by week 14, but in some cases, it may persist longer.

What Causes Morning Sickness?

While the exact cause is not entirely known, several factors contribute to this condition:

• Hormonal changes: A rapid rise in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen levels is believed to play a major role in triggering nausea.
• Enhanced sense of smell: Pregnant women may develop sensitivity to certain odors, which can trigger nausea.
• Gastrointestinal sensitivity: Slower digestion due to increased progesterone may contribute to nausea and bloating.
• Low blood sugar: Fluctuating blood sugar levels, especially in the morning, can worsen the feeling of sickness.

Who Is More Likely to Experience Morning Sickness?

• Women pregnant with multiples (twins or triplets)
• First-time mothers
• Women with a history of motion sickness or migraines
• Those with a family history of severe morning sickness

Symptoms of Morning Sickness

• Nausea, with or without vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Increased saliva production (ptyalism)
• Sensitivity to smells and tastes
• Fatigue or light-headedness due to lack of nutrition

How to Manage Morning Sickness

While you may not be able to eliminate nausea completely, the following strategies can help reduce its intensity and frequency:

1. Eat Small, Frequent Meals

Eating every 2–3 hours keeps your blood sugar stable. Choose bland, easy-to-digest foods like crackers, toast, or rice.

2. Avoid Triggers

Stay away from strong odors, greasy or spicy foods, and stuffy environments that worsen nausea.

3. Stay Hydrated

Sip water, herbal teas, or electrolyte-rich drinks throughout the day. Coconut water is also a good natural hydrator.

4. Try Ginger

Ginger tea, ginger candies, or ginger capsules have been found to help reduce nausea. Some studies suggest taking 250mg of ginger 3–4 times a day is effective.

5. Get Fresh Air

Spend time outdoors or open windows at home and work to get some fresh air. It helps clear out smells and may ease nausea.

6. Vitamin B6 Supplements

Vitamin B6 has been shown to reduce nausea in pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

7. Use Acupressure Wristbands

These bands apply pressure to the P6 (Nei Guan) point on your wrist and are commonly used for motion sickness. Some women find them helpful during pregnancy too.

Medical Treatments and Medications

If natural remedies aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe pregnancy-safe anti-nausea medications such as:

• Diclegis (doxylamine + vitamin B6)
• Metoclopramide or Ondansetron (used cautiously based on severity and trimester)

These medications should only be taken under medical supervision, especially in the first trimester.

When Is It More Than Just Morning Sickness?

In rare cases, morning sickness can become severe and lead to a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which involves:

• Persistent vomiting (more than 3–4 times a day)
• Inability to keep food or fluids down
• Weight loss of more than 5%
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness)

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. You may need IV fluids and medications in a hospital setting.

Support in Singapore

Hospitals like KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) and National University Hospital (NUH) offer obstetric support, and your OB-GYN can advise on tailored treatments. You can also reach out to prenatal support groups for shared tips and comfort.

Tips for Partners and Family Members

• Be patient and understanding, especially during meal times.
• Help with chores and meal preparation to reduce stress and exposure to smells.
• Keep healthy snacks and water nearby for the expecting mother.

Conclusion

Morning sickness, though unpleasant, is often a positive sign of a healthy pregnancy. With the right care, support, and lifestyle adjustments, most women find relief as they progress into the second trimester. Always consult your doctor if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are normal or if they’re affecting your quality of life significantly.

Stay tuned for more articles in our pregnancy series, including guides on managing fatigue, heartburn, and more.