Nausea in pregnancy, often called morning sickness, can begin very early, typically between 4 and 9 weeks of pregnancy. More precise research shows it can start as early as 8 to 10 days after ovulation, which is earlier than previously thought. Most women begin to feel nauseous around the 6th week of pregnancy, with symptoms peaking between weeks 8 to 11 and usually improving by the end of the first trimester (around 13 to 16 weeks). However, timing can vary between individuals, and some may experience nausea beyond the first trimester or not at all.
Key points on onset of nausea in pregnancy:
- Generally starts between weeks 4 and 9 of pregnancy.
- More exact onset can be as early as 8 to 10 days after ovulation.
- Symptoms tend to peak around weeks 8 to 10 or 8 to 11.
- Usually improves or resolves by weeks 13 to 16.
- Some women may not experience nausea or may have it beyond the first trimester.
This early onset is linked to hormonal changes such as rising levels of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and other pregnancy hormones.
