What Is Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness is the nausea and occasional vomiting many women experience during pregnancy. Despite the name, it can happen anytime—morning, afternoon, or night. It usually appears in the early months but can continue longer for some women.
Why Does Morning Sickness Happen?
Doctors believe morning sickness is linked to several factors:
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Hormones: Rapid rise in pregnancy hormones, especially hCG and estrogen.
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Sensitive stomach: Digestion slows down in pregnancy, making nausea more likely.
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Blood sugar dips: Low glucose can trigger queasiness.
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Smell sensitivity: Scents that were fine before can suddenly feel overwhelming.
When Does It Start and End?
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Begins: Around week 5–6 of pregnancy.
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Peak: Between weeks 8–12.
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Ends: For most, symptoms ease by week 14, though some women feel it into the second trimester.
Natural Ways to Relieve Morning Sickness
1. Eat Small, Frequent Meals
Instead of three heavy meals, try five or six light meals throughout the day. This keeps your stomach from being empty, which often makes nausea worse.
2. Choose Easy, Bland Foods
Crackers, dry toast, bananas, rice, applesauce, and plain yogurt are usually easier to tolerate than spicy or greasy meals.
3. Stay Hydrated Smartly
Sip water slowly through the day instead of drinking large amounts at once. Some women find cold drinks, lemon water, or clear soups easier to keep down.
4. Ginger
Fresh ginger tea, ginger biscuits, or even a small piece of raw ginger can calm nausea naturally.
5. Vitamin B6
Studies show that Vitamin B6 can reduce pregnancy nausea. Always ask your doctor before taking supplements.
6. Rest and Relaxation
Fatigue makes nausea worse. Short naps, deep breathing, and light stretching can ease symptoms.
7. Fresh Air
Step outside or keep a window open. Stuffy, hot rooms often trigger queasiness.
8. Morning Snack in Bed
Keep crackers beside your bed. Eating one or two before standing up can prevent that sudden morning wave of nausea.
Foods and Habits to Avoid
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Very spicy, fried, or oily foods
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Strong odors from cooking or perfumes
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Caffeine in large amounts
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Lying flat immediately after eating
Medical Help: When to See a Doctor
Most morning sickness is mild, but sometimes it becomes severe. Seek medical advice if:
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You can’t keep any food or fluids down
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You lose weight instead of gaining
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You feel dizzy, faint, or notice very dark urine
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Vomiting continues past week 20
This may be a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum, which needs medical care.
Coping Day to Day
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Keep snacks in your bag for sudden nausea.
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Identify and avoid your personal triggers (smells, foods, travel).
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Ask family members to help with cooking if kitchen smells make you sick.
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Focus on hydration and nourishment more than perfection—some days crackers may be all you can manage, and that’s okay.
Key Takeaways
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Morning sickness is common and usually temporary.
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Small meals, ginger, hydration, and rest can make a big difference.
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Avoid strong smells, heavy foods, and overexertion.
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If vomiting is severe or persistent, consult a healthcare provider.
