Morning sickness
Morning sickness can occur at any time of day, although it's usually worse when you first wake up. It might help to keep a snack by your bed.
How long does morning sickness last?
Morning sickness begins early in pregnancy, usually between the 4th and 7th week. It usually settles by 16 to 20 weeks, although for some it may last longer.
It's thought hormonal changes in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy are probably one of the causes of morning sickness.
There is no evidence that nausea and vomiting has a harmful effect on your baby.
Sign up for emails
Our emails include common pregnancy topics like this and much more. Sign up for regular emails tailored to your stage of pregnancy or your child's age.
Treatment for morning sickness
Try eating 6 small meals a day, get lots of rest, and follow a balanced, healthy diet with lots of water. Read these tips on healthy eating.
Some people find that ginger helps (such as ginger tea, ginger ale, crystallised ginger and ginger biscuits). Others say sucking ice cubes and wearing travel acupressure wristbands helps.
It may help to eat bland foods like jacket potatoes, pasta, plain biscuits, dry bread or toast. Remember to keep hydrated with lots of water.
Severe vomiting or morning sickness
If you cannot keep any food or drink down, there is a chance of developing a severe form of pregnancy sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum.
This can be serious, and there's a chance you may not get enough fluids in your body (dehydration) or not get enough nutrients from your diet (malnourishment).
If you cannot keep food down, talk to your midwife or doctor as you may need specialist treatment, sometimes in hospital.