What Causes Morning Sickness?

What Causes Morning Sickness?

It may be called morning sickness, but the nausea and vomiting that accompanies about 70% of pregnancies can actually occur at any time of day. This common condition usually begins around the 6-week mark of pregnancy, and it can last for weeks, months, or, for some women, throughout the entire pregnancy.  

If you’re struggling through morning sickness or worried you might experience it when you become pregnant, you’re probably wondering what causes it and how you can avoid this unpleasant side effect of pregnancy.  

The board-certified OB/GYN providers at Southern Crescent Women’s HealthCare provide comprehensive obstetrics services for women in Fayetteville, Newnan, and Stockbridge, Georgia. From preconception counseling through postnatal care, our team is with you every step of the way — including helping you manage morning sickness should the issue arise.

Take a moment to learn more about morning sickness, what you can do to manage it, and when it’s time to seek medical help.

Why do pregnant women get morning sickness?

Medical researchers still aren’t sure what causes morning sickness. Increased hormone levels during the first weeks of pregnancy play a role, but other factors, such as low blood sugar, may also play a role. Some conditions may make morning sickness worse, such as:

Ultimately, researchers believe a combination of factors may contribute to the development of the condition, since morning sickness varies in severity and duration between women. In fact, you may have severe morning sickness with one pregnancy and have only mild symptoms in a subsequent pregnancy. 

What if my morning sickness is severe?

For about 3% of pregnant women, morning sickness may develop into a serious condition called hyperemesis gravidarum. This condition causes severe nausea and vomiting that leads to dehydration and weight loss. Symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum include:

If not treated, hyperemesis gravidarum can cause health complications for the baby. If you experience any of the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum, call your Southern Crescent Women’s Healthcare provider right away. Treatment typically requires hospitalization and the delivery of fluids for rehydration through an IV.

Is there help for morning sickness?

The good news is that there are steps you can take to manage your morning sickness. Some of the most effective ways to find relief involve making small lifestyle changes, including:

Some women also find that wearing an acupressure bracelet or getting acupuncture treatments helps alleviate their symptoms. If you’re struggling with morning sickness, and these lifestyle changes don’t help, your Southern Crescent Women’s HealthCare provider may recommend additional interventions, including:

It’s important to understand that only your doctor should provide these medications. In other words, don’t take any morning sickness medications before talking with your provider.  

For help managing morning sickness and all other aspects of pregnancy, call 770-991-2200 or book an appointment online with Southern Crescent Women’s HealthCare today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

My Pap Was Abnormal. Now What?

If you’ve had a Pap smear and were told the results are abnormal, it’s natural to be concerned. However, an abnormal result doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer. Read on to learn what this result could mean and what your next steps could be.

Are You Considering Natural Childbirth?

Congratulations on your pregnancy! This is an exciting time for you and your family. If you’re considering natural childbirth, you should understand the benefits and challenges it brings so you can prepare. Here’s what you need to know.

What Does Prenatal Care Offer?

Your well-being and the health of your baby are the most important things when you’re pregnant. Prenatal care helps you stay healthy, from preconception through delivery. Learn more about prenatal care and what this service offers.

Do All STDs Have Symptoms?

An itchy rash, unusual discharge, unsightly bumps — these may be signs of a sexually transmitted disease (STD). But not all STDs cause noticeable symptoms, and many trigger only mild symptoms at first. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Pap Test?

A Pap test, also called a Pap smear, is an important health screening every woman should get. Keep reading to learn more about this simple exam and when you should schedule yours.