Morning Sickness in Pregnancy: Causes, Relief Tips & What Actually Helps

For many women, morning sickness is one of the first signs of pregnancy—and one of the most challenging. Despite its name, morning sickness can strike at any time of the day (or night), bringing waves of nausea and vomiting that range from mild to debilitating.

If you're experiencing this, you're not alone. According to the NHS, up to 8 in 10 pregnant women experience some form of morning sickness, usually starting around week 6 and easing by weeks 16–20. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) also highlights that while it's common and often harmless, it can significantly impact daily life.

What Causes Morning Sickness?

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be linked to the rapid hormonal changes in early pregnancy—particularly rising levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen. Other contributors include:

·         Heightened sensitivity to smells

·         Low blood sugar

·         Fatigue

·         Stress and emotional factors

Tips to Relieve Morning Sickness

While there’s no magic cure, many women find relief through a combination of lifestyle adjustments, natural remedies, and small daily changes. Here are some NHS and RCOG-approved tips to ease your nausea:

1. Eat Little and Often

An empty stomach can worsen nausea. Try eating small meals every 2–3 hours. Dry foods like crackers or plain toast can help when you're feeling queasy.

2. Stay Hydrated

Sipping water throughout the day is essential, especially if vomiting is frequent. Cold or lemon-infused water may be more palatable.

3. Try Ginger

The NHS suggests ginger may help relieve nausea. Ginger biscuits, capsules, or tea can all be soothing.
👉 Tip: Try our Nausea Relief Tea made with organic ginger and peppermint—naturally calming and gentle on your stomach.

4. Wear Acupressure Wrist Bands

RCOG supports the use of acupressure as a non-invasive option. These bands apply pressure to a specific point on the wrist and have helped many women manage travel sickness and pregnancy nausea.
👉 Our Nausea Relief Wrist Bands are discreet, comfortable, and perfect for all-day wear.

5. Avoid Triggers

Pay attention to smells, foods, or environments that set off your nausea. Avoiding those triggers can make a big difference.

6. Get Plenty of Rest

Fatigue can intensify nausea, so prioritise sleep and don’t hesitate to take naps when you can.

7. When to Seek Medical Help

If you're unable to keep food or fluids down or losing weight, you may have a more severe form of morning sickness known as hyperemesis gravidarum. This requires medical attention and support—speak to your GP or midwife right away.

The Takeaway

Morning sickness is one of the most common symptoms of early pregnancy, and although it can be incredibly uncomfortable, it usually passes with time. Simple remedies like ginger tea and wrist bands, combined with self-care and rest, can make a real difference.

Explore our curated range of pregnancy must-haves, including gentle herbal teas, natural remedies, and thoughtful comfort products designed to support you through every trimester.