Definition of the word morning sickness

The term "morning sickness" refers to the nausea and vomiting that some pregnant women experience during the first trimester of pregnancy. The term itself might make one assume that this discomfort is exclusive to the mornings, but in reality, it can strike at any time of the day. The origin of this term can be traced back to the early 1900s, when it was coined by doctors in America and England. At the time, it was thought that the sickness that pregnant women experience in the morning was a result of an empty stomach, due to skipping breakfast in anticipation of vomiting, leading the term "morning sickness." However, medical research has since shown that this discomfort is actually more complex than just an empty stomach. In fact, it is the result of a surge in hormones, most notably human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), during pregnancy which stops the digestive process and provokes feelings of nausea and vomiting. The timing and severity of morning sickness can vary greatly from woman to woman, with some experiencing a mild discomfort while others are severely affected. While the exact reasons behind these differences are unclear, it is believed that genetics, diet, and stress may be contributing factors. Regardless of its origin, the term "morning sickness" has become widely used by both medical professionals and patients, despite not being entirely accurate. Ultimately, it serves as a common understanding and a convenient shorthand for the nausea and vomiting that many expectant mothers experience during the early stages of pregnancy.