How long into a pregnancy does nausea typically begin?

Oct 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I just found out I'm pregnant and I'm wondering how long into the pregnancy nausea usually starts. Does it vary from person to person?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

In early pregnancy, many women experience morning sickness or nausea. This discomfort generally may appear starting from the 4th week of pregnancy and is related to changes in hormone levels in the body, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

Generally, women may begin experiencing nausea and vomiting around 6 weeks of pregnancy, approximately 42 days. This is because hormone levels such as estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin gradually rise after conception, stimulating the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

Some women may feel nauseated as early as week 5 or even earlier, while others may not experience this sensation at all during early pregnancy.

The nausea and vomiting of most pregnant women will gradually subside between 12 to 16 weeks of gestation, although some women may remain asymptomatic throughout the entire pregnancy.

If the nausea is mild, pregnant women can alleviate symptoms by adjusting their diet and lifestyle, such as eating small, frequent meals and avoiding greasy foods. However, if the nausea is severe and affects normal daily life, prompt medical attention is recommended.