Gynaecology, by video or in person
Morning Sickness (Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Morning Sickness (Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy)
- Feeling sick, often worse in the morning or when hungry
- Vomiting
- Being put off foods or smells
- Tiredness
- In severe sickness: vomiting many times a day, being unable to keep food or drink down, weight loss, dark urine
Nausea and vomiting are very common in the first months of pregnancy and, despite the name, can happen at any time of day. They usually start around six weeks and ease by 16 to 20 weeks. Morning sickness is unpleasant but does not usually harm the baby. A small number of women develop hyperemesis gravidarum, severe vomiting that causes dehydration and weight loss, which needs treatment with medicine and sometimes a drip in hospital. Safe anti-sickness medicines exist, so nobody should suffer severe sickness without help.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Feeling sick, often worse in the morning or when hungry
- Vomiting
- Being put off foods or smells
- Tiredness
- In severe sickness: vomiting many times a day, being unable to keep food or drink down, weight loss, dark urine
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if sickness is stopping you eating or drinking, you are losing weight, or simple measures have not helped, so you can be offered safe medicine. Go to a hospital emergency department now if you cannot keep any fluids down for 24 hours, pass very little or dark urine, feel faint or confused, vomit blood, or have stomach pain, a fever or bleeding from the vagina.
Treatment options
- Small, frequent meals and snacks, starting with dry food before getting up
- Sipping fluids often between meals
- Avoiding foods and smells that trigger nausea
- Ginger, which may help mild nausea
- Anti-sickness medicine that is safe in pregnancy, prescribed by a doctor
- Fluids through a drip in hospital for severe sickness
Common Questions
Is morning sickness harmful to my baby?
Usual morning sickness does not harm the baby. Severe sickness with dehydration needs treatment to protect both of you, which is why it is worth seeing a doctor.
Are anti-sickness medicines safe in pregnancy?
Several have been used safely in pregnancy for many years. A doctor will choose one that suits you, so you do not need to suffer severe sickness.
Does severe sickness mean twins?
It can be more common with twins, but most women with severe sickness are carrying one baby. An early scan answers the question.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified gynaecology specialist near you.
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