Morning Sickness

Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, typically caused by rising hormone levels.

What is Morning Sickness?

Morning Sickness is the common term for the nausea and vomiting that affects up to 80% of pregnant women. Despite the name, it can happen at any time of the day or night.

For most women, it begins around week 6 and peaks around weeks 10–12, typically resolving by the start of the second trimester (week 14).

The Cause: Hormones

The primary culprit is the rapid rise of hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) and estrogen. These hormones affect the digestive system and the 'nausea center' in the brain.

While it's miserable to experience, many doctors view morning sickness as a positive sign that hormone levels are strong and the pregnancy is developing well.

Managing the Quease

If you're struggling to keep food down, try these evidence-based tips:

• Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Don't let your stomach get completely empty.
• Ginger and Lemon: Ginger tea, candies, or even smelling fresh lemon can help.
• B6 and Doxylamine: This combination (often found in the prescription Bonjesta or Diclegis) is the gold standard for medical treatment.
• Sea-Bands: P6 acupressure wristbands can provide relief for some women.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)

If you are vomiting so much that you can't keep any fluids down, are losing weight, or feeling faint, you may have Hyperemesis Gravidarum. This is a severe form of morning sickness that requires medical intervention and sometimes IV fluids to prevent dehydration.

The Bottom Line

Morning sickness is often the first 'welcome to motherhood' moment. While it feels like it will last forever, it is usually just a temporary phase. Use the Bloom App to track your triggers and find out which foods your body can actually handle during this time!