First Signs of Pregnancy

Morning Sickness

Soon after you conceive, your body begins a series of major changes that enable it to sustain your baby through 37 weeks of growth and development. The glands of your endocrine system and placenta step up hormone production. Your blood volume increases and your uterus expands.

Is it normal?

About 70 percent of pregnant women experience the feeling of sickness early in their pregnancy. This is often most noticeable in the mornings though it can occur at any time of the day or night. The feeling sometimes progresses to actual vomiting. Don't worry it is a normal reaction to the changes occurring in your body.

You may find that you develop an aversion to some foods. This may be most pronounced with foods that have strong smell or flavour. The only point you need to be concerned about is that you continue to eat a good healthy diet.

Why do I feel sick?

I have never been able to find any research that pinpoints the exact cause. But it seems likely that the influx of hormones which cause changes in your stomach may be a culprit.

Is there anything I can do about it?

Basically eat plain foods like dry toast, biscuits or crackers, particularly first thing in the morning.

Eat little and often to keep your stomach topped up.

Drink lots of fluids. Still mineral water is probably best, but fruit juices and cold drinks may help.

Obviously you should steer clear of any foods that make you feel sick.

Ginger has proved helpful to many women. You can take it in capsules, tea, sodas, ginger snaps or ginger biscuits.

How long will the sickness last?

Things should start to improve about three months into your pregnancy. If the sickness becomes violent or persists for more than 3 months you should seek medical help.