Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

The exact cause is unknown, but it is thought to be related to hormonal changes in pregnancy. It is more likely:

• If you had it in a previous pregnancy.
• If you’re having more than one baby (twins/triplets).
• If you have a molar pregnancy (a rare condition where the placenta overgrows and the baby does not develop).

Many women find that symptoms are kept at bay by eating little and often. Carrying snacks around with you – such as dry crackers – may help. Other women find cold food and drink (grapes from the fridge, cold fruit squash or ice-cubes) are tolerated more easily. Spicy food and acidic fruit juice are generally best avoided.

There is some evidence that applying pressure to a specific point on the wrist using bands (acupressure) may help.

• Anti-sickness medications including cyclizine, metoclopramide, prochlorperazine, and ondansetron.
• If you suffer with symptoms of acid reflux, you may be advised to take Gaviscon ® or omeprazole.
• If you suffer from constipation, you may be offered laxatives such as Movicol.
• Fluids through a drip (if you are not tolerating drinks).
• In a small number of cases where NVP is not controlled with other measures, you may need a course of steroids.

It is important to seek help (contact your GP or midwife) if your symptoms persist and/or you find it difficult to carry out your daily activities. If, despite anti-sickness tablets, you continue to vomit, lose weight or feel dehydrated and/or feel generally unwell, you may need further assessment in hospital.

If you are unable to tolerate fluids and food, you will need fluids and medications through a drip.

In moderate cases, we may organise daily appointments in SDEC (Same Day Emergency Care) for blood tests, and treatment with fluids, vitamins and anti-sickness medications through a drip.

In severe cases you may need hospital admission.

Please ask your GP for a repeat prescription before your tablets run out.

When you feel better, you can start to cut down on the number of anti-sickness tablets you are taking. If your symptoms return, restart regularly taking medication that has helped you previously.

Call 111 when you need medical help fast, or go to the NHS website

You may also find information and support from:

• Pregnancy Sickness Support (PSS), a UK charity supporting women with nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, is a great source of information
• Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy 

Switchboard: 020 3456 7890 Emergency Department University College Hospital

Ground Floor, 235 Euston Road, London NW1 2BU