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Pregnancy is a rollercoaster ride of emotions, physical changes, and yes, sometimes nausea. For many expectant mothers, morning sickness is like that uninvited guest who shows up at the most inconvenient times — around 70% of pregnant people experience morning sickness at some point in their pregnancy.
But here's the kicker: this unwelcome visitor doesn't always stick to a predictable schedule. One day you're hugging the toilet bowl, and the next, you're feeling fresh as a daisy. What gives?
Is it normal to have morning sickness on some days and not others?
Absolutely! If you're experiencing a now-you-see-it-now-you-don't pattern with your morning sickness, you're not alone. Many women report that their nausea and vomiting seem to play hide-and-seek throughout pregnancy. This inconsistency is completely normal and doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you or your baby.
The main culprit behind this on-again-off-again nausea is the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone rises rapidly in early pregnancy and can cause that queasy feeling. But here's the thing: hCG levels can fluctuate, which might explain why you feel like you're on a nausea rollercoaster.
As OB-GYN Dr. Caledonia Buckheit explains, "Beta hCG rises predictably (and at a fairly steady rate) in early pregnancy, then falls later on and can fluctuate.".
But hCG isn’t the only thing causing your pregnancy nausea — stress can be a contributor, too; which could explain why some days, your morning sickness pops up again. If you’re curious about your morning sickness trigger, try keeping a journal on how you’re feeling emotionally — you might find some links between higher stress and nausea.
Can morning sickness stop and then come back?
Yes — just when you think you've bid farewell to morning sickness, it can make an encore appearance. This comeback tour isn't cause for alarm, though. Your body is going through massive changes, and sometimes your symptoms decide to keep you on your toes.
Factors like stress, fatigue, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), and even certain foods can trigger the return of nausea. Some women find that their morning sickness takes a breather for a few days, only to return with a vengeance.
Should I be worried if my morning sickness stops suddenly?
It's natural to worry when pregnancy symptoms suddenly vanish, especially if you've been feeling nauseous for weeks. However, a sudden stop in morning sickness isn't necessarily a red flag. For many women, nausea begins to taper off around the end of the first trimester as hormone levels stabilize.
That being said, if the abrupt end of your symptoms is accompanied by other changes like bleeding or cramping, it's best to check in with your healthcare provider. They can offer reassurance or investigate further if needed. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and what's normal for one woman might not be for another.
Can nausea return in the 3rd trimester?
Just when you thought you were in the clear, nausea can sometimes make a surprise comeback in the third trimester. While less common than first-trimester morning sickness, late-pregnancy nausea isn't unheard of. This resurgence can be due to a variety of factors, including the growing baby putting pressure on your stomach (which is often when reflux comes into play) or changes in your digestion as your body prepares for labor.
If you find yourself reaching for the saltines again in your third trimester, don't panic. As long as you're able to keep food down and stay hydrated, this late-game nausea is usually nothing to worry about. However, if it's severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider.
Can baby moving cause nausea?
Not likely — later in pregnancy, when your baby is big enough for you to feel their movements, it's normal to experience some discomfort from their kicks and rolls. While this activity isn't likely causing your nausea, it might feel more noticeable when you're already dealing with queasiness.
Remember, every pregnancy experience is unique — if you're concerned about your symptoms, your healthcare provider is always there to help you sort out what's normal and what might need attention.
Coping with the ebb and flow of morning sickness
Dealing with unpredictable nausea can be frustrating, but there are ways to manage it. Eating small, frequent meals (even when you have no appetite) can help keep your blood sugar stable and your stomach settled. Staying hydrated is crucial, even if you have to sip water slowly throughout the day. Some women find relief with magnesium supplements, while others swear by acupressure bands or ginger and peppermint teas, sweets, or flavored gums.
Remember, what works for one woman might not work for another. And on those days when nothing seems to help, be kind to yourself. Growing a human is hard work, and sometimes all you can do is ride out the wave.
Morning sickness, with its unpredictable nature, is just one of the many challenges of pregnancy. But like everything else in this journey, it's usually temporary. Whether your nausea comes and goes, sticks around, or disappears entirely, know that you're not alone in this experience. And if you’re concerned at all, reach out to your healthcare provider — it’s what they’re there for.
So the next time you're feeling queasy (or surprisingly not), remember that your body is doing incredible things. You're growing a whole new person! A little nausea here and there is just part of the amazing process.
Hang in there, mama-to-be. Before you know it, you'll be holding your baby in your arms, and morning sickness will be nothing but a distant memory.
Tassia O'Callaghan is an experienced content writer and strategist, having written about a vast range of topics from chemical regulations to parenting, for brands like Peanut App Ltd, Scary Mommy, Tally Workspace, and Office Christmas. She's an advocate for realistic sustainable living, supporting small businesses (author of A-Z of Marketing for Small Businesses), and equity across all walks of life. Follow her on LinkedIn or TikTok, or see more of her work on Authory or her website.