Morning Sickness: Understanding symptoms and causes

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Morning sickness is a common experience during pregnancy, causing nausea and sometimes vomiting. Despite its name, it can occur at any time of the day.

Most women experience morning sickness during the first trimester, usually within the first 12 to 16 weeks. For many, the symptoms are mild and ease as the pregnancy progresses.

Common signs include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sensitivity to smells, and aversion to certain foods. Some women feel worse when their stomach is empty, and symptoms can appear in the morning, afternoon, or night.

The exact cause of morning sickness is not fully understood, but experts point to several factors linked to changes in the body during pregnancy.

Hormonal changes play a key role. Levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen rise rapidly in early pregnancy, triggering nausea and vomiting in many women.

An increased sense of smell is another factor. Many expectant mothers become highly sensitive to odors, with strong or unpleasant smells often provoking nausea.

Low blood sugar may also contribute, particularly when the stomach is empty. Additionally, some researchers suggest that morning sickness may have a protective effect, encouraging mothers to avoid foods that could be harmful to the developing baby.

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