Characterized by nausea, vomiting, aversion to food, and fatigue, among other symptoms, morning sickness is one of those nasty situations that almost every expectant mother (about 75%) will experience, so don't worry.
What is morning sickness?
Morning sickness is a general term used to describe some of the symptoms commonly felt by new mothers during the first trimester of pregnancy. When most women talk about `morning sickness,` they're probably talking about nausea and vomiting (usually, but not always, it occurs in the morning, hence the name comes from this situation), but morning sickness can also encompass many other symptoms.
When does morning sickness start?
Contrary to what you might think, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day. Morning sickness can occur as soon as three weeks after conception and usually lasts up to about 12 weeks. For most women, morning sickness symptoms disappear by the end of the first trimester, but some may be affected by nausea and vomiting throughout their pregnancy. This is a condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum and can lead to dehydration, so it's important to let your healthcare provider know if your nausea and vomiting continues for a little longer than usual.
What causes morning sickness?
Experts are still not entirely sure why morning sickness occurs, but they have some pretty good ideas. Many believe that high levels of hormones such as hCG and estrogen may play a role in the symptoms. Other possibilities include an increased sense of smell and a sensitive stomach.
Women who experience nausea while taking the birth control pill are more likely to experience morning sickness, as are women with a history of migraines and women carrying more than one baby.
Other theorists suggest that morning sickness is an adaptation designed to protect you and your baby, but this is by no means proven.
How can you treat morning sickness?
Morning sickness is something most moms-to struggle with, at least for a while, so it might be a good idea to ask your friends, family, coworkers, and strangers with kids on the street how they're coping. Whatever remedy you choose with your healthcare provider, remember to make sure it is safe for pregnancy!