Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
Nausea and vomiting are very common and normal in early pregnancy, usually in the first trimester, and despite the name “morning sickness” they can happen any time of day. For most people it’s unpleasant but not harmful, and it tends to ease as pregnancy progresses. The goals are to keep you comfortable, eating, and hydrated. Simple diet and lifestyle changes help many people; when they aren’t enough, there are medications with a well-established safety record in pregnancy that a pharmacist can assess for and recommend.
Self-care products available in our shop
- Ginger products (tea, lozenges, capsules) — ask the pharmacist about a safe amount in pregnancy
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) — an evidence-supported first step
- Acupressure wristbands — a drug-free option some people find helpful
- Iron-free prenatal vitamins / folic acid, since iron-heavy prenatals can worsen nausea
- Lifestyle tips: eat dry crackers before getting up, have small frequent meals (an empty stomach worsens nausea), sip fluids between meals rather than with them, avoid fatty/fried/spicy foods and triggering smells, take prenatals after food, and rest. Talk to your pharmacist before starting any product in pregnancy.
Treatments our pharmacist can prescribe
For your information only: in Ontario, our pharmacist can assess this condition and, when appropriate, prescribe from the medications listed below. This information is provided for educational purposes — it is not an offer to sell. These are treatments that require a pharmacist assessment, and the right option is chosen for you.
Antiemetics & antinauseants: Dimenhydrinate (Gravol), Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), Doxylamine, Pyridoxine / vitamin B6 (doxylamine + pyridoxine = Diclectin), Promethazine
When to seek further care: See a health-care provider right away if you can’t keep any fluids down, feel very thirsty, dizzy, or faint on standing (signs of dehydration); vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; are losing weight; or have a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting that doesn’t respond to treatment. Severe, persistent vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum) needs prompt medical care.