Morning sickness
Definition
Morning sickness is that can occur at any time of the day during pregnancy.
Considerations
Morning sickness is very common. Most pregnant women have at least some nausea, and about one third have vomiting.
Morning sickness most often begins during the first month of pregnancy and continues through the 14th to 16th week (3rd or 4th month). Some women have nausea and vomiting through their .
Morning sickness does not hurt the baby in any way unless you lose weight, such as with . Mild weight loss during the first trimester is not uncommon when women have moderate symptoms, and is not harmful to the baby.
The amount of morning sickness during one pregnancy does not predict how you will feel in future pregnancies.
Causes
The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown. It may be caused by hormone changes or lower blood sugar during early pregnancy. Emotional stress, fatigue, traveling, or some foods can make the problem worse. Nausea in pregnancy is more common and can be worse with twins or triplets.
Home Care
Try to keep a positive attitude. Remember that in most cases morning sickness stops after the first 3 or 4 months of pregnancy. To reduce nausea, try:
Here are some more tips:
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Contact your provider if:
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
Your provider will do a physical examination, including a pelvic exam, and look for any signs of .
Your provider may ask the following questions:
Your provider may do the following tests:
References
Antony KM, Racusin DA, Aagaard K, Dildy GA. Maternal physiology. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe's Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 3.
Bonthala N, Wong MS. Gastrointestinal diseases in pregnancy. In: Landon MB, Galan HL, Jauniaux ERM, et al, eds. Gabbe's Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 53.
Smith RP. Routine prenatal care: first trimester. In: Smith RP, ed. Netter's Obstetrics and Gynecology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 207.
Review Date: 8/23/2023
Reviewed By: LaQuita Martinez, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Alpharetta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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