The first three months of pregnancy can feel like a whirlwind - exciting, emotional, and for many, utterly exhausting. Morning sickness (which, as any mum-to-be will tell you, doesn't just happen in the morning) affects up to 80% of pregnant women and can range from mild nausea to all-day queasiness.
Why does it happen?
Morning sickness is thought to be caused by rising levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and oestrogen during early pregnancy. The good news? It usually eases by weeks 12-14.
Tips to help you through it
Eat small, frequent meals to keep your blood sugar steady
Keep plain crackers or ginger biscuits by your bed for before you get up
Stay hydrated - sip water, herbal teas, or diluted juice throughout the day
Ginger is your friend - ginger tea, ginger sweets, or ginger capsules can all help
Rest as much as you can; fatigue makes nausea worse
Avoid strong smells that trigger nausea
When to seek help
If you're unable to keep food or fluids down, losing weight, or feeling very unwell, speak to your midwife or GP. Severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum) affects around 1-3% of pregnancies and may need medical treatment.
You've got this
The first trimester is tough, but it's also the beginning of something truly magical. Be kind to yourself, lean on your support network, and know that this phase will pass.
At Earthling, we're here for every stage of your journey into parenthood - from bump to baby and beyond.
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