Nausea in pregnancy / hyperemesis

Up to 80% of pregnant people will be affected by morning sickness. Symptoms usually begin 4-6 weeks after your last period and peak between 9-16 weeks. A small proportion of people continue to have symptoms until their baby is born. Normal pregnancy sickness won’t threaten your baby’s health as long as you are able to keep food and fluids down. 

Symptoms can occur at any time of the day and often include:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Dry retching

  • Food or smell sensitivity

Coping with morning sickness

Low blood sugar levels can exacerbate nausea so try to eat small snacks often. Try to eat something plain as soon as you wake up and before you go to bed. Ginger may help, as well as acupressure bands or acupuncture. 

In approximately 2% of pregnancies, pregnancy sickness is severe and ongoing. This is called hyperemesis gravidarum.

If you are experiencing the following symptoms, please contact your midwife:

  • Have dark coloured urine or do not pass urine for more than 8 hours

  • Are unable to keep food or fluids down for 24 hours

  • Feel severely week, dizzy or faint when standing up

  • Are losing weight