Nausea during pregnancy can feel overwhelming, especially when you don't know what's normal and when it typically begins. Many experience nausea early in pregnancy, but the timing, intensity, and duration vary greatly from person to person. Here you'll find practical, reassuring guidance on when nausea often starts, what you can do in your daily life, and when it makes sense to seek help.

For many, pregnancy nausea begins in the first trimester. It often appears around weeks 5 to 6, counting from the first day of the last menstrual period, but some notice it earlier, and others don't experience nausea at all. Nausea can creep in as mild discomfort, food aversion, or sudden sensitivity to smells.

It's also common for nausea to fluctuate from day to day. You might have days where you almost forget about it, and others where it's very prominent. Both can be within the normal range.

For many, nausea peaks in the first trimester and gradually subsides during the second trimester. At the same time, it is completely normal for some to continue having symptoms longer, or for nausea to return later in pregnancy, for example, if you experience heartburn or increased pressure in your stomach.

Instead of thinking in terms of a fixed schedule, it can be helpful to monitor your pattern:

• When is it worst during the day?
• Is it worse on an empty stomach?
• Are there specific smells or foods that trigger it?

A small logbook for a few days can make it easier to adjust your daily routine and explain the symptoms if you need to talk to a doctor or midwife.

Although many call it morning sickness, it can easily last all day. Some have it worst in the morning on an empty stomach, while others experience the most nausea later in the day when their energy is depleted.

You can try:

• Eat small, frequent meals to avoid an completely empty stomach.
• Start the day slowly with something dry or mild, if that suits you.
• Drink in small sips, especially if large glasses of liquid worsen the nausea.
• Prioritise rest, as fatigue can make symptoms more pronounced.

If you're vomiting, the focus is especially on staying hydrated and finding something you can keep down, even if it's not "perfect food."

There isn't one piece of advice that works for everyone. However, many benefit from focusing on three things: food, smells, and breaks.

• Food: Bland food and small portions can be easier to manage. Some tolerate cold foods better than hot, as they have less scent.
• Smells: Ventilate, avoid triggers where you can, and feel free to ask your partner or family for help with cooking if kitchen odors trigger nausea.
• Breaks: Nausea can feel worse when you push yourself. Short rests and calm transitions between activities can make a difference.

If you are considering supplements or over-the-counter remedies for nausea, it's a good idea to discuss it with a healthcare professional to ensure it's suitable for you and your pregnancy.

It's important that you don't suffer alone with severe nausea. Contact a doctor or out-of-hours doctor if, for example, you:

• cannot keep fluids down
• urinate very little or have dark urine
• become dizzy, very weak, or experience heart palpitations
• lose weight, or if nausea/vomiting takes over your daily life

These can be signs that you need treatment and support to prevent dehydration or exhaustion.

Explain specifically how long you've had symptoms, how much you can drink/eat, and how often you vomit. The more precisely you can describe it, the easier it will be to get the right help.

When you have nausea, anything that feels tight or bothersome can feel worse than usual. Many pregnant women therefore prefer soft, flexible clothing that provides comfort to the body in everyday life. In the Pregnancy collection, you can find comfort products for pregnancy, and if you need support for your abdomen and lower back later in pregnancy, you can see Support Belts, e.g., the Adjustable Support Belt.