Morning sickness

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Morning sickness

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Treatment

Morning sickness

Definition:

Morning sickness refers to nausea and vomiting that often occurs in the morning during pregnancy.

For severe, persistent vomiting during pregnancy, see hyperemesis gravidarum. For general information on pregnancy, see pregnancy care.

Alternative Names:

Nausea in the morning - females; Vomiting in the morning - females

Considerations:

Morning sickness is very common. Most pregnant women have at least some nausea, and about a third have vomiting. Morning sickness usually begins during the first month of pregnancy and continues until the 14th to 16th week. Some women have nausea and vomiting through their entire pregnancy.

Morning sickness does not hurt the baby in any way. The degree of morning sickness during one pregnancy does not predict how you will feel in future pregnancies.

Common Causes:

The exact cause of morning sickness is unknown. It may be caused by hormonal changes or lower blood sugar during early pregnancy. Emotional stress, traveling, or some foods can aggravate the problem.

References:

Heinrichs L. Linking olfaction with nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, recurrent abortion, hyperemesis gravidarum, and migraine headache. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2002; 186(5 Suppl Understanding): S215-S219.

Quinla JD. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Am Fam Physician. 2003; 68(1): 121-128.

Review Date: 5/28/2004
Reviewed By: Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Department of Internal-Medicine, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Boston, Ma.

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