As many as 90% or more of pregnant individuals endure the challenges of nausea and vomiting, commonly known as “morning sickness.” Contrary to the misnomer, recent research suggests that these symptoms can strike at any hour, debunking the conventional notion that it is confined to the morning.
A groundbreaking study involving pregnant women meticulously documenting their symptoms throughout the day over the first seven weeks of pregnancy revealed that while peak symptoms tend to occur in the morning, a substantial number of women experience these symptoms in the late afternoon or night. These findings shed light on the need for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by pregnant individuals.
The most severe manifestation of this condition, hyperemesis gravidarum, impacts up to 3.6% of pregnant women. Characterized by persistent and severe symptoms, it can lead to weight loss, dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, and profound emotional and mental health consequences. Strikingly, recent studies indicate elevated rates of pregnancy termination and suicidal thoughts among those afflicted with hyperemesis gravidarum, underscoring the urgency for effective interventions.
Even in less severe cases, the effects of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy extend beyond mere physical discomfort, influencing mental wellbeing, work, relationships, and the overall pregnancy experience. Despite these profound impacts, the condition is often misunderstood, leading to a lack of effective treatments and perpetuating the stigma surrounding it.
A recent Australian survey illuminated the grim reality faced by many pregnant individuals. Shockingly, one in four respondents reported being denied medications for treating nausea or hyperemesis. This denial may be rooted in historical hesitancy surrounding medication use during pregnancy, dating back to the thalidomide tragedy in the 1960s. However, it also reflects the enduring stigma faced by those seeking care for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy.
Historically, misguided beliefs about the psychological origins of these symptoms have contributed to dismissive and damaging practices. As recently as the early 1900s, “hysteria” was erroneously considered a principal cause of nausea and vomiting, leading to isolation and mistreatment of affected individuals.
Biologists argue that these symptoms serve a protective function, shielding both mother and unborn child from potentially harmful exposures. While there may be validity to this argument, framing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy as a “rite of passage” may inadvertently trivialize the profound burden it places on individuals.
Defining and addressing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is a complex task. Guidelines often rely on screening tools to categorize symptoms as mild, moderate, or severe. While these tools can guide treatment, there is a risk of causing harm if they restrict access to care based solely on perceived symptom severity. It is imperative that treatment decisions consider a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s emotional, mental, and physical health.
Perhaps one of the most significant steps in destigmatizing and addressing this condition is retiring the term “morning sickness.” Recognizing the inaccuracy and oversimplification of this term, there is a growing call to refer to the illness by its proper name—nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, or “NVP.” This shift in language aims to reduce stigma and foster better outcomes for those affected.
Moreover, acknowledging the diverse experiences of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy is crucial. Not all cases are equal, and treating them as such risks diminishing the unique challenges faced by each individual. By embracing a more inclusive and accurate terminology, healthcare professionals can contribute to a more empathetic and supportive approach to managing this common yet often misunderstood condition.
