So you’ve just seen those two pink lines and your heart is bursting with excitement, but suddenly, your stomach isn’t as thrilled. Welcome to one of the earliest signs of pregnancy: morning sickness.
Despite the name, this queasy feeling doesn’t just show up in the morning. It can surprise you any time of day or night (yes, even at bedtime!). For many first-time moms, it’s confusing, exhausting, and sometimes overwhelming. But here’s the good news, you’re not alone, and this stage is usually temporary.
Morning sickness is a common part of early pregnancy, caused by a cocktail of hormonal changes, a super sensitive sense of smell, and your body adjusting to the little life growing inside you. While it might not feel like it now, this is one of the many ways your body is preparing for motherhood.
In this article, we’ll walk you through what causes morning sickness, when it usually starts, how to manage it, and when to ask for help.
What Causes Morning Sickness?
Some of the most common theories behind morning sickness include:
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Hormonal changes: The surge of HCG and estrogen in early pregnancy is believed to play a major role in causing nausea.
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Heightened sense of smell: Pregnant women often become more sensitive to odors, which can trigger nausea.
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Slowed digestion: Progesterone relaxes the muscles of the digestive tract, slowing digestion and contributing to a queasy stomach.
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Stress and fatigue: Emotional stress and tiredness may intensify nausea.
When Does Morning Sickness Start and End?
Morning Sickness During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Morning sickness typically begins around week 6 of pregnancy and peaks between weeks 8 to 11. For many women, it starts to improve by the second trimester (around week 14), though some may experience it for longer.
How to Manage Morning Sickness
While morning sickness is often mild and manageable, it can still interfere with daily life. Here are some tips to help you cope:
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Eat small, frequent meals – An empty stomach can worsen nausea.
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Choose bland foods – Crackers, toast, bananas, and rice can help settle the stomach.
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Stay hydrated – Sip water or ginger tea throughout the day.
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Avoid strong smells – Cooking odors, perfumes, or smoke can trigger nausea.
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Try vitamin B6 – Some doctors recommend it for mild nausea.
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Rest often – Fatigue can make symptoms worse, so don’t push yourself.
What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
In rare cases, morning sickness becomes severe and persistent, leading to dehydration, weight loss, and nutritional deficiencies. This condition is called hyperemesis gravidarum. If you’re:
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Vomiting multiple times a day,
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Unable to keep food or fluids down,
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Losing weight quickly, or
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Feeling dizzy or faint,
It’s important to seek medical help immediately. Treatment may include IV fluids, medications, and nutritional support.
When to See a Doctor
While morning sickness is usually nothing to worry about, contact your doctor if:
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You’re unable to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
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You’re losing weight rapidly
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You feel faint, dizzy, or extremely weak
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There’s blood in your vomit
Your doctor may suggest medications like anti-nausea drugs, lifestyle changes, or even hospital care in severe cases.
Morning Sickness During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Morning sickness is a common part of early pregnancy, and while it can be unpleasant, it usually resolves as your body adjusts to pregnancy. Understanding its causes, recognizing the signs of something more serious, and knowing how to manage your symptoms can make all the difference.
If your nausea is becoming unmanageable or you suspect hyperemesis gravidarum, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.
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