Morning sickness can be one of the most challenging parts of early pregnancy. That is why we invited Dr. Navdeep Singh Pannu, Medical Director at TMC Fertility & Women’s Specialist Centre, to answer common questions about managing nausea and vomiting to help make this phase of pregnancy more manageable. Visit this link to see the full thread.
Q: How can I overcome morning sickness in the first trimester?
Dr. Navdeep: Here are some tips:
- Choose foods high in protein, low in fat, and easy to digest.
- Snack often to avoid an empty stomach.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Pay attention to nausea triggers.
- If necessary, consider anti-vomiting (anti-emetics) medications prescribed by your doctor.
Q: Which foods trigger morning sickness?
Dr. Navdeep: Spicy or high-fat foods, citrus juice, milk, coffee, and caffeinated tea can worsen nausea. Avoid alcohol entirely as well.
Q: I feel nauseous and can’t eat anything in the evening. How can I cope?
Dr. Navdeep: Try taking small amounts of food and fluids more frequently. If needed, talk to your doctor about anti-emetic medications.
Q: I’m in my second trimester and still throwing up in the evenings. Is this common?
Dr. Navdeep: While most women feel better after the first trimester, some continue experiencing nausea or vomiting into the second trimester. Adjusting your eating habits—such as changing what, when, and how much you eat—can help.
Q: Why do I feel nauseous at night, even with an early and light dinner?
Dr. Navdeep: Nighttime nausea is often caused by acid reflux. Antacids like Gaviscon can help neutralise stomach acid and relieve symptoms.
Q: My wife doesn’t have morning sickness. Is that normal?
Dr. Navdeep: Yes, it’s perfectly normal. Not all pregnant women experience nausea or vomiting, and the absence of these symptoms isn’t cause for concern.
Q: Is it normal to suddenly stop having morning sickness at around 6 weeks?
Dr. Navdeep: Yes, it’s normal for morning sickness to stop at any point. While many associate nausea with early pregnancy, some women never experience it, and others notice a sudden end to their symptoms.
Q: Are there side effects from morning sickness medication? Are there alternatives?
Dr. Navdeep: Side effects of anti-emetic medications are rare but may include drowsiness, dry mouth, headaches, dizziness, gastrointestinal issues, muscle pain, or rash. Alternative remedies include ginger, sour treats, mint, fluids, Vitamin B6, and acupuncture.
Q: When will my morning sickness subside?
Dr. Navdeep: Morning sickness usually peaks between weeks 8–11 and typically fades by the end of the first trimester.
Q: What proactive steps can I take to avoid morning sickness?
Dr. Navdeep:
- Select foods high in protein and low in fat that are easy to digest.
- Snack often and drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid known nausea triggers.
- Consider alternative remedies like ginger, sour treats, mint, Vitamin B6, acupressure, or acupuncture.
About Dr. Navdeep Singh Pannu
Dr. Navdeep Singh Pannu is a fertility specialist and the Medical Director at TMC Fertility & Women’s Specialist Centre. With years of experience supporting women through their fertility and pregnancy journeys, Dr. Navdeep offers compassionate, evidence-based advice to help manage the challenges of pregnancy.
Final Thoughts
Morning sickness can be tough, but it’s usually temporary. With the right strategies and support, you can manage symptoms effectively and focus on enjoying your pregnancy journey.
