Pregnancy nausea: what to know

Nausea may occur on waking or at any time of day. Smells, heat, an empty stomach, tiredness, reflux, or certain foods can intensify it. Some people vomit, while others mainly feel queasy or lose interest in food. Pregnancy nausea is not the only possible explanation for feeling sick: food poisoning, gastroenteritis, gastritis, acid reflux, or another illness can also cause nausea, especially when there is fever, diarrhoea, significant pain, or a new pattern.

Try small, frequent portions and keep a plain snack nearby for before getting out of bed. Choose cool foods if cooking smells trigger symptoms, eat slowly, and sip fluids regularly. Rest, fresh air, and avoiding known triggers may help. If vomiting is troublesome, ask your maternity clinician about anti-sickness treatment that is suitable for pregnancy; do not use leftover medicines or supplements without checking. Oral rehydration advice may be useful when fluid losses are a concern.

Contact your maternity team if you cannot keep fluids down, are passing very little urine, feel faint, have worsening weakness, or are losing weight. Seek urgent assessment for severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit, high fever, confusion, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. Persistent vomiting can cause dehydration and may need fluids or prescribed treatment.

Could another illness be causing my nausea? Which food, fluid, and anti-sickness options are appropriate? How can I tell whether I am becoming dehydrated, and when should I attend urgent care?