Morning sickness
Morning sickness (Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy, NVP) is common nausea/vomiting in early pregnancy, occurring anytime, not just mornings, usually starting around week 6 and improving by weeks 12-20, caused by hormonal changes (like GDF-15) and sometimes genetic factors, but can be managed with small meals, bland foods, ginger, and hydration; if severe (hyperemesis gravidarum), it requires medical attention.
Symptoms
Nausea and vomiting at any time of day or night.
Aversion or sensitivity to certain smells and foods.
Excessive saliva (ptyalism).
Can feel like seasickness or carsickness.
Management & Relief
Diet: Eat small, frequent meals; bland, dry foods (crackers, toast, rice, pasta); protein-rich snacks; avoid greasy/spicy foods.
Hydration: Sip water, ginger ale, or herbal teas; drink 6-8 cups daily.
Lifestyle: Get rest; wear loose clothing; try acupressure wristbands; eat crackers before getting out of bed.
Supplements: Take prenatal vitamins with food or before bed, or try gummy/chewable versions.
Triggers: Identify and avoid personal triggers.
Severe Morning Sickness (Hyperemesis Gravidarum - HG)
Symptoms: Prolonged, severe nausea and vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, dehydration, malnutrition.
Action: See a doctor or midwife immediately; may need hospital treatment.
Duration & Cause
Typically starts week 4-7, peaks around weeks 9-16, and resolves by weeks 16-20, though it can last longer.
Caused mainly by pregnancy hormones, particularly GDF-15, which the placenta and fetus also produce.
Protection
Some scientists believe it's an evolutionary defense mechanism to protect the fetus from toxins, as the nausea triggers dietary avoidance during vulnerable early stages.
Symptoms
Nausea and vomiting at any time of day or night.
Aversion or sensitivity to certain smells and foods.
Excessive saliva (ptyalism).
Can feel like seasickness or carsickness.
Management & Relief
Diet: Eat small, frequent meals; bland, dry foods (crackers, toast, rice, pasta); protein-rich snacks; avoid greasy/spicy foods.
Hydration: Sip water, ginger ale, or herbal teas; drink 6-8 cups daily.
Lifestyle: Get rest; wear loose clothing; try acupressure wristbands; eat crackers before getting out of bed.
Supplements: Take prenatal vitamins with food or before bed, or try gummy/chewable versions.
Triggers: Identify and avoid personal triggers.
Severe Morning Sickness (Hyperemesis Gravidarum - HG)
Symptoms: Prolonged, severe nausea and vomiting, inability to keep fluids down, dehydration, malnutrition.
Action: See a doctor or midwife immediately; may need hospital treatment.
Duration & Cause
Typically starts week 4-7, peaks around weeks 9-16, and resolves by weeks 16-20, though it can last longer.
Caused mainly by pregnancy hormones, particularly GDF-15, which the placenta and fetus also produce.
Protection
Some scientists believe it's an evolutionary defense mechanism to protect the fetus from toxins, as the nausea triggers dietary avoidance during vulnerable early stages.
26-30, F
