morning sickness

morning sickness The common phenomenon of nausea between the 6th and 12th weeks of pregnancy. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting. Morning sickness is believed to be caused by hormonal changes and metabolic changes that involve carbohydrate digestion. Suggested treatment includes eating crackers or other high-carbohydrate foods first thing in the morning (even before getting out of bed); eating small, frequent meals; drinking extra fluids between meals; and avoiding fatty foods. If morning sickness is extreme enough to lead to weight loss during pregnancy, the condition is termed hyperemesis gravidarum, and it requires immediate medical treatment. See also hyperemesis gravidarum.