Morning Sickness Got You Down?

A white teapot, a cup of light yellow tea, a lemon wedge, a piece of ginger root, and a cup of light brown tea are arranged in a row on a wooden plank

Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of early pregnancy, caused by your changing hormones. This is usually called morning sickness, although it can occur any time of day. For some people it can be worse in the morning and ease up by the end of the day. For others it can last 24/7. Morning sickness usually starts around your sixth week of pregnancy and often starts to go away by the 12th week. For some people it can last longer, even the entire pregnancy. You may find certain smells make you feel nauseated.  Things that had never bothered you before might trigger it. 

Tips for coping with nausea and vomiting

  • Keep the air flowing – open windows and turn on the stove fan when you are cooking. 
  • Avoid having an empty stomach and try not to skip meals. 
  • Try eating small meals and snacks often throughout the day. 
  • Try ginger tea or ginger ale to settle your stomach. 
  • Avoid smoke, strong smells, alcohol and caffeine. 

Please see your health care provider if:  

  • Your symptoms are affecting your ability to do everyday activities 
  • You are not taking any fluids or keeping anything down  

For more tips see: Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy  

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