Morning Sickness: Here's What Helps!

(August 13, 2026) Many expectant mothers suffer from morning sickness, especially during the first few months. A well-known example is Britain’s Princess Kate, who struggled with it during all three of her pregnancies. 

The aroma of fresh coffee wafts through the apartment. What sounds delicious is no treat for many pregnant women. That’s because the senses of smell and taste are particularly heightened during pregnancy. Many women often feel queasy in the morning, while others experience it in the afternoon or at night as well. “Nausea and vomiting at the beginning of pregnancy affect nearly three-quarters of expectant mothers,” says Prof. Dr. Ingolf Juhasz-Böss, Medical Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Medical Center – University of Freiburg.

Expert Tips for Combating Nausea

Simply talking less about the nausea can already help

For these women, their “special circumstances” begin with feeling absolutely miserable. The reasons why they feel nauseous while other pregnant women are thriving remain unclear to this day. “It’s likely a combination of various factors,” says Juhasz-Böss. Estrogen and the pregnancy hormone hCG, which is produced in the placenta, appear to be responsible. In multiple pregnancies, the symptoms can be more severe. But thyroid disorders, anxiety, problems, or stress can also exacerbate the symptoms. The expert also advises: “It helps some women not to focus too much on the symptoms.”

The unborn baby is not in danger

But Juhasz-Böss also has some good news: “While normal morning sickness is unpleasant for the mother, it is not dangerous for the unborn baby.” Nausea usually occurs between the 5th and 14th weeks. This is the time when all of the baby’s organs—its arms, legs, ears, and nose—are forming. After that, the baby continues to grow rapidly, and the nausea and urge to vomit usually disappear as quickly as they came.

Seek medical advice for severe cases

However, the severe form of morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum, can be dangerous. In this case, the nausea persists throughout the day. “If a woman vomits more than five times a day, shows signs of inadequate food intake, and loses weight, this is referred to as ‘hyperemesis gravidarum,’” says Juhasz-Böss. About two percent of women are affected, predominantly young, slim nonsmokers and women expecting twins. Women who smoked before pregnancy, are overweight, or are over 35 years old are less likely to suffer from it.

“A pregnant woman should always discuss nausea and vomiting with her obstetrician—and seek immediate medical attention if she can no longer keep any food down or is losing weight,” advises Juhasz-Böss.

Expert Tips for Relieving Nausea:

• Drink sugar-free, non-carbonated beverages, such as water or tea, preferably in small sips throughout the day. If you’re vomiting frequently, electrolyte-rich beverages may also be helpful. Before getting out of bed, a lightly sweetened tea or a glass of orange juice can help. Eat a piece of rusk with it and then stay in bed for about 20 minutes.

• After vomiting, it helps to rinse your mouth with water first. It’s best to wait about 30 minutes before brushing your teeth to protect your tooth enamel.

• Several small meals spread throughout the day are easier to tolerate. These can be slightly higher in carbohydrates than usual. When experiencing nausea, fiber from fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products, and protein-rich, low-fat foods are often better tolerated. Ginger can also help relieve symptoms, for example as tea or in small amounts as part of a meal.

• It may help to avoid smells to which you are sensitive during pregnancy. These often include coffee, meat, or perfume.

• Well-ventilated rooms, fresh air, and light exercise can further relieve symptoms. A stuffy or warm environment is often perceived as unpleasant.

• Loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t constrict the abdomen is often more comfortable.

• Before the 15th or 16th week of pregnancy, it is often recommended to avoid taking additional vitamin supplements. “At the beginning, pregnant women only need an adequate dose of folic acid. Additional vitamins can put a strain on the stomach, since it has to break down the capsules. That, in turn, can make the nausea worse,” says Juhasz-Böss.

• Some women find acupressure on the wrist or acupuncture helpful.

• Medications such as vitamin B6, doxylamine, or anti-nausea drugs like dimenhydrinate can help after consulting a doctor. Their use during pregnancy should always be tailored to the individual.

• If nausea persists beyond the 16th week of pregnancy, a medical evaluation is recommended. In many cases, the symptoms simply last longer; less commonly, other causes may be involved, such as hormonal changes or thyroid problems.

This article was medically reviewed by

Prof. Dr. Ingolf Juhasz-Böss
, Medical Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Medical Center – University of Freiburg

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