How to Manage Morning Sickness in Early Pregnancy

Morning sickness is one of the most common symptoms of early pregnancy, affecting up to 70% of expectant mothers. Despite the name, nausea and vomiting can strike at any time of day. 

Though it’s often considered a “normal” part of pregnancy, that doesn’t make it any easier to handle. However, our pediatric team at Northeast Pediatric Associates PA is here to offer safe, effective ways to help you, as an expectant mother, manage morning sickness and feel more like yourself.

The cause of morning sickness

Though the exact cause isn’t fully understood, morning sickness is believed to be triggered by hormonal changes, especially rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen. Blood sugar fluctuations, a heightened sense of smell, and stress may also contribute. 

Symptoms usually begin around the sixth week and taper off by the second trimester, but every pregnancy is different.

Tips to ease nausea and vomiting

Here are some effective ways to ease the discomfort of morning sickness:

Eat small, frequent meals

Instead of three large meals a day, try eating small portions every two to three hours. An empty stomach can worsen nausea, so keep something in your system, especially plain carbohydrates like crackers, toast, or rice.

Stay hydrated

Sip water, ginger tea, or electrolyte drinks throughout your day. Dehydration can worsen nausea, but drinking too much at once may make you feel sick. Try taking small sips between meals.

Avoid triggers

Strong smells, spicy foods, and greasy meals can all be nausea triggers. Identify and avoid anything that makes your symptoms worse, even if it’s something you normally enjoy.

Try ginger or vitamin B6

Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties. You can try ginger tea, ginger candies, or capsules. Vitamin B6 supplements have also been shown to reduce morning sickness in some pregnant women. Consult with us before you begin taking any new supplement.

Get plenty of rest

Fatigue can make nausea worse. Try to get enough sleep, take breaks throughout the day, and listen to your body’s need for rest.

Talk to our team

If you have severe or persistent morning sickness, especially if you can’t keep food or liquids down, seek medical advice. You may have a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which may require medication or additional care.

Support and patience go a long way

Morning sickness can be frustrating, exhausting, and unpredictable, but it’s usually temporary. When you take proactive steps and seek support when needed, you can get through this phase with greater comfort and confidence. 

Don’t hesitate to lean on loved ones, ask for help, and remind yourself that every day brings you one step closer to meeting your baby. We’re here to help, too. Book an appointment with our team to get the highest level of expert care throughout your pregnancy. 

Contact us at the office nearest you to schedule a visit. Our offices are located in Northeast San Antonio, North Central San Antonio, Schertz, Bulverde, and Castroville, Texas.