You're six weeks pregnant and nausea has hit. Sometimes it’s in the morning, sometimes it’s all day. You’re wondering: How long will morning sickness last?

At Summit Health, we understand that every pregnancy is unique and our Women’s Health/OBGYN team is here to support you through every stage. Morning sickness is a common part of early pregnancy, but knowing what to expect and when to seek care can make all the difference.

Morning sickness timeline: When it starts and when it ends.

When morning sickness starts.

Most women experience morning sickness around week 6 of pregnancy, though it can start as early as 8 to 10 days after ovulation. Nearly all pregnant women experience some level of morning sickness—about two-thirds have both nausea and vomiting, while one-third experience nausea only.

When morning sickness peaks.

Morning sickness symptoms peak between weeks 8 and 10, when hCG hormone levels are highest. This is usually the most difficult stretch.

When morning sickness stops.

For most women, morning sickness improves by weeks 12 to 14, as the second trimester begins. By week 20, many women are symptom-free. 

However, mild nausea may persist until week 16 for some, which is still considered normal. If nausea continues past week 22, it’s a good idea to mention it to your Summit Health OB/GYN provider.

Why morning sickness happens and when it stops.

When you're around 8-10 weeks pregnant, a hormone called hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) peaks and that's when nausea is usually worst. After week 14, hCG levels drop and so does the nausea.

Another hormone called GDF15, which the placenta produces, also affects how severe your nausea feels. Some women's bodies make more of it, which is why morning sickness intensity varies from woman to woman.

Studies show women with morning sickness have a lower risk of pregnancy loss. Your body is actually working to protect your baby during those critical early weeks.

When severe vomiting becomes a problem.

Most morning sickness resolves without complications. But if vomiting prevents you from keeping down food and fluids, dehydration becomes a concern.

Signs of dehydration:

• Dark urine or urinating infrequently
• Dry mouth or lips
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid pulse
• Weight loss

Severe morning sickness (hyperemesis gravidarum).

If you can't keep anything down, it's called hyperemesis gravidarum, affecting less than 2% of pregnancies. 

Signs of severe morning sickness include:

• Vomiting multiple times daily
• Weight loss
• Severe dehydration 

Most women improve by week 20, but some women continue to experience symptoms throughout pregnancy. Treatment helps. Talk to your provider.

When to seek care for morning sickness.

If you're concerned about morning sickness, make an appointment with your OB for guidance and support. They can help manage your symptoms and ensure your well-being.

However, urgent care or an ER visit is needed if you experience severe symptoms like:

• Unable to keep food or fluids down
• Vomiting multiple times daily
• Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth)
• Weight loss during pregnancy
• Sudden worsening of symptoms
• Trouble taking prenatal vitamins

Don’t ignore these warning signs. Your safety and your baby’s health come first, so seek care right away if needed.

What actually helps with morning sickness?

Eating strategies:

• Small, frequent meals instead of three large ones
• Eat before getting hungry
• Keep crackers by your bed
• Avoid greasy, spicy, or strong-smelling foods
• Sip fluids throughout the day

Other options:

• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
• Ginger supplements or tea work for some women
• Fresh air and movement help some
• Peppermint tea or lozenges ease queasiness

Medication options for morning sickness.

For more severe symptoms, talk to your Summit Health provider about safe medications. The combination of doxylamine and pyridoxine (Diclegis) is FDA-approved for pregnancy and can significantly reduce nausea.

Treating morning sickness at Summit Health.

Morning sickness can feel endless, but for most women, symptoms improve around weeks 12-14, with the majority feeling better by week 22. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, Summit Health’s Women’s Health/OBGYN team is here to help.

Our obstetricians and gynecologists specialize in both normal and high-risk pregnancies, offering expert care tailored to your needs. From managing morning sickness to providing comprehensive prenatal care, we’re with you every step of the way.

If you’re struggling with morning sickness, don’t suffer alone. Contact Summit Health today to schedule an appointment or walk in for immediate care. Together, we’ll ensure you and your baby receive the best possible care.