What causes Morning Sickness?

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, often known as morning sickness, affects around 8 out of every 10 pregnant women.

Despite being called 'morning sickness', it can affect you at any time of the day or night, and you may feel sick all day long.

Morning or pregnancy sickness is unpleasant, and can significantly affect your day-to-day life. It usually clears up by weeks 16 to 20 of your pregnancy and does not put your baby at any increased risk.

There is a chance of developing a severe form of pregnancy sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum. This can be serious, and there's a chance you may not get enough fluids in your body (dehydration) or not get enough nutrients from your diet (malnourishment). You may need specialist treatment, sometimes in hospital.

It is not known what causes morning/pregnancy sickness, but you may be more at risk of it if:

- You are having twins (or a multiple birth)

- You experienced severe sickness and vomiting during a previous pregnancy

- You tend to get motion sickness (for example, car sick)

- You have a history of migraine headaches

- Pregnancy/morning sickness runs in the family

- It is your first pregnancy

- You are experiencing stress 

Unfortunately, there is no magic cure for morning sickness. But there are some things that may help:

Try eating little and often – eating 6 small meals a day instead of 3 big meals. So that you do not overwhelm you stomach whilst it is feeling delicate.

Rest – pregnancy sickness may feel worse when you’re tired, so try to rest if you’re not feeling well.

Avoid foods high in sugar or saturated fats – this includes sweets, chocolate and red meat. As these foods will be more difficult to digest, and may heighten feelings of nausea.

Eat plain carbohydrates – things like bread, rice, potatoes and pasta can be easier on your tummy when nauseous.

Eat a small snack as soon as you get up in the morning – something like dry toast, crackers or a plain biscuit to line your stomach before you begin your day.

Have foods or drinks that have ginger in them – there is evidence that things like ginger biscuits, crystallised ginger or our Morning Rescue Tea can help you feel a little less queasy because of its anti-inflammatory properties.

The ingredients in Morning Rescue have all been used for millennia to support happy tummies. It is believed that their benefits link to the gingerols in the ginger, and citrals in the lemon-y ingredients that are both anti-inflammatory.

If your symptoms persist or worsen see your GP or midwife. Getting help early can help you avoid dehydration and weight loss.