How Soon Does Pregnancy Nausea Start?
Most women experience some form of pregnancy-related nausea. It is known as ‘morning sickness’, although it can actually occur at any time of day, not just in the morning. Although nausea in the early stages of pregnancy is normal it can make daily activities more challenging. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the key questions expectant mothers often ask in relation to nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy – including how soon it can start.
When Does Morning Sickness Start?
Typically, morning sickness starts between the fourth and sixth week of pregnancy, and can last until the 12th week. It’s usually at its worst between weeks six and eight.
Why Does Nausea Occur During Pregnancy?
The exact cause of nausea in pregnancy is still unknown, but it’s thought to be the result of a combination of factors, including:
- Hormonal changes
- Increased production of oestrogen
- An empty womb where the fertilised egg has not yet attached itself to the wall
- A heightened sense of smell
What Causes Morning Sickness to Change?
Nausea can increase or decrease in intensity depending on circumstances. The following can all have an impact on the nature and severity of morning sickness:
- Stress – Being under pressure can increase the strength of the nausea
- Food smell – Being around food can make the nausea worse for some people
- Hunger – If you haven’t eaten for a while, your nausea could become worse
- Exercise – Exercise can ease the symptoms of morning sickness
Symptoms of Morning Sickness
In addition to the general feeling of nausea, a number of other symptoms may be present during morning sickness. These include:
- Vomiting – This can vary from person to person, but expectant mothers may find they vomit several time a day
- Weight Loss – Morning sickness can typically cause a decrease in appetite, resulting in some weight being lost in the first trimester
- Frequent Urination – Expectant mothers may find that the need to urinate more frequently can intensify the nausea
Morning sickness is thought to be the body’s natural way of protecting the pregnancy. It’s important to remember then, that it won’t last forever, and it can be managed through a combination of diet, rest and exercise.
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