How to prepare for a video visit about Pregnancy Nausea (Morning Sickness) - Triage

Audience: adult

Pregnancy nausea, often called morning sickness, is a common experience during early pregnancy. It usually involves feelings of nausea and sometimes vomiting, especially in the first trimester. While many people manage these symptoms at home, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess how severe your symptoms are and guide you on safe ways to feel better. Preparing for your video visit will help you share important details about your symptoms, eating habits, and overall health. During the visit, your provider may ask about how often you feel sick, if you can keep food or fluids down, and any other symptoms you have. This information helps determine if you need further care or if your symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and safe remedies. Remember, if you experience severe symptoms like dehydration or weight loss, you should seek urgent medical care. Telemedicine can support you by providing advice and triage but is not a substitute for emergency or in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Unable to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours — seek urgent care.
• Severe abdominal pain or cramping — contact healthcare immediately.
• Dizziness, fainting, or very little urine output — get emergency medical help.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing mild to moderate nausea and vomiting symptoms.
• Providing advice on dietary and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms.
• Reviewing medication and supplement safety during pregnancy.
• Determining if symptoms require urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe dehydration requiring intravenous fluids.
• Complications such as hyperemesis gravidarum needing hospital care.
• Emergency symptoms like severe abdominal pain or fainting.

What is Pregnancy Nausea (Morning Sickness)?

Pregnancy nausea, often called morning sickness, is a common condition during early pregnancy. It usually causes feelings of nausea and sometimes vomiting. Symptoms often start around the 6th week of pregnancy and may improve after the first trimester. The exact cause is not fully known but is linked to hormonal changes.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

During your video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, including how often you feel nauseous or vomit, whether you can keep food and fluids down, and if you have other symptoms like dizziness or abdominal pain. They may also ask about your medical history and any medications or supplements you are taking.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and how severe they are. Note any weight changes, how much fluid you are drinking, and any other health concerns. Have a list of current medications and supplements ready. Find a quiet, well-lit place with a good internet connection for the visit.

Managing Pregnancy Nausea at Home

Many people find relief by eating small, frequent meals, avoiding strong smells, and resting when needed. Drinking fluids slowly throughout the day can help prevent dehydration. Some may benefit from ginger or vitamin B6 supplements, but always check with your healthcare provider first.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

If you cannot keep any fluids down for more than 24 hours, have severe abdominal pain, dizziness, fainting, or notice dark urine or very little urine output, seek urgent medical care. These could be signs of dehydration or other complications.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down when your nausea and vomiting started and how often they occur.
• Note any weight changes since pregnancy began.
• Track how much food and fluids you are able to keep down.
• List all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting and internet for the video visit.
• Have a device ready with a camera and microphone for communication.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on diet and hydration.
• Use recommended remedies or medications as directed.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as advised by your provider.

FAQs

Is morning sickness the same as pregnancy nausea?

Yes, morning sickness is a common term for pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting, which can happen at any time of day, not just in the morning.

Can I take medications for nausea during pregnancy?

Some medications and supplements may be safe, but you should always check with your healthcare provider before taking anything during pregnancy.

When should I worry about pregnancy nausea?

If you cannot keep any fluids down for more than a day, have severe pain, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms, you should seek medical care promptly.

Will my nausea affect my baby?

Mild to moderate nausea usually does not harm the baby. However, severe vomiting leading to dehydration may require medical attention to protect both you and your baby.

Sources

1. Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Morning Sickness — Mayo Clinic.
3. Pregnancy Nausea and Vomiting — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy: A Review — National Library of Medicine, NIH.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare professional.