When does the morning sickness end?

You found out, and the world went a little brighter. You told your partner, maybe your mom, maybe no one yet. Then one morning the coffee smelled all wrong and toast became your best friend. If that sounds familiar, you're in very good company, and there is light at the end of this one.

You're not alone

Morning sickness is one of the most common parts of early pregnancy. It affects up to 70% of women in the first trimester. Despite the name, it can show up any time of day.

No one knows exactly what causes it. Rising pregnancy hormones, shifts in blood sugar and blood pressure, and all the changes your body is making are likely part of it.

And if you're one of the moms who feels just fine? That's good news, too. Cleveland Clinic notes you're just as likely to have a healthy baby whether or not you get morning sickness.

When it starts, peaks and eases

Every pregnancy is different, but there's a typical arc:

• It starts early. Sometimes as early as week 6. Most moms notice it before week 9.
• It peaks. Usually around weeks 8 to 10.
• It eases. For most, it improves or stops around week 13.

Some moms feel queasy a bit longer, into the middle of the second trimester, and for a small number it lasts longer still. If yours lingers, that doesn't mean anything is wrong. Your care team can help you feel better along the way.

Gentle things that help

Small changes can make a real difference. Try a few and keep what works:

• Crackers before you get up. Keep a few by the bed and nibble before your feet hit the floor.
• Small meals, often. An empty stomach can make nausea worse. Several small meals beat three big ones.
• Bland and easy. Plain foods tend to sit better. A little protein in your snacks can help.
• Sip all day. Drink fluids between meals and go easy on caffeine.
• Ginger. Tea made with grated ginger or ginger candies help some moms.
• Fresh air and pleasant scents. Keep rooms ventilated. Lemon or mint can be soothing.
• Stay upright after eating. Give your stomach a little time before lying down.
• Rest. Growing a baby is real work. Naps count.

Some moms also try acupressure wristbands. Check with your provider first.

When to call your doctor or midwife

Most morning sickness is uncomfortable but manageable. A small number of moms have a more serious form called hyperemesis gravidarum, and your care team can help.

Call your doctor or midwife right away if you:

• Can't keep liquids down.
• Are vomiting three or more times a day.
• Pee very little, or your urine is dark.
• Feel dizzy or faint when you stand up.
• Notice your heart racing.
• Are losing weight.
• See brown or bloody vomit.
• Feel extremely tired or confused, or have pain or a fever.

Reaching out early is a sign of good care, not of making a fuss. You deserve to feel well.

The turn toward joy

Here's the part to hold onto. For most moms, the fog lifts as the first trimester ends. Appetite returns. Energy creeps back. Food tastes like food again.

And right around the corner is the second trimester, a season many moms remember as the sweet spot. It's when the first flutters arrive and the anatomy scan shows you her face on the screen.

Hang in there, Mama. Keep the crackers close, and the best days are just ahead.

Where this comes from

This article draws on guidance from Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic guidance on nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. It's here to help, not to replace your own doctor, midwife or pediatrician. If you have questions, ask them.

• Morning Sickness: When It Starts, Treatment & Prevention, Cleveland Clinic
• Morning sickness: Symptoms and causes, Mayo Clinic

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