Types of Morning Sickness

One of the first things people associate with becoming pregnant is morning sickness, and for good reason. Now medically termed "nausea and vomiting in pregnancy" (NVP), this condition is common in over half of all pregnant women. And while it probably will not make any woman out there feel better physically, it is thought that women who encounter NVP are less likely to miscarry. So, having a good dose of NVP may just be the sign of a healthy pregnancy.

Morning Sickness/NVP

• Sadly, what is commonly called "morning sickness" isn't just for the morning hours. It can occur any time of the day or night. NVP will begin for most women around the sixth week of pregnancy and, for most, it will dissipate by week 12. Nausea is generally brought on by the extra hormones coursing through the body due to pregnancy. For most, the nausea is accompanied with light to moderate bouts of vomiting.

Food Aversion

• Many women will become nauseated by the slightest sight or smell of certain foods. This is common, and is known as "food aversion." The aversion is generally surrounding foods that could be potentially harmful to the fetus, such as meat, fish, poultry and eggs. This aversion to harmful foods has been documented back to the time of poor sanitation and lack of proper food storage. It is thought that this may be the body's way of protecting the baby during gestation.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum

• Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a severe and potentially harmful form of NVP. It is accompanied by an almost relentless nausea and excessive vomiting that can occur well beyond 12 weeks of pregnancy. Women suffering from this condition will generally lose weight, experience a fever and suffer from the inability to keep down any type of food or liquids.

  The danger of hyperemesis gravidarum is dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance in the mother. It is important to see a doctor if this type of situation occurs, or if there is ever any concern surrounding the severity of NVP.