Glossary / Lexicon

Morning sickness is defined as the nausea and vomiting that some women have or experience when they become pregnant; typically caused by the increase in hormones. Morning sickness can occur at any point in the day, but most often in the morning, hence its name.

Morning sickness is a common term used to describe the nausea and vomiting experienced by many women during pregnancy, typically in the first trimester. It is not necessarily a psychological phenomenon, but it can have psychological impacts on the affected individual.

Here are some examples of how morning sickness may affect a person psychologically:

1. Anxiety: The experience of morning sickness can be distressing and uncomfortable, which can lead to feelings of anxiety or worry about the pregnancy and the health of the baby.

2. Depression: If morning sickness is severe or persistent, it can disrupt daily routines and activities, leading to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or depression.

3. Discomfort: Morning sickness can be physically uncomfortable, which can lead to irritability or a negative mood state.

4. Impact on relationships: Morning sickness can affect a woman's ability to participate in social activities or fulfill responsibilities at work or home, which can lead to strain in relationships with partners, family members, or coworkers.

5. Coping strategies: Women with morning sickness may need to develop coping strategies to manage their symptoms, such as taking breaks during the day or avoiding certain foods or smells. Learning new coping strategies can be stressful or challenging, but can also promote a sense of resilience and self-efficacy.

Overall, morning sickness can have both physical and psychological effects, but it is a normal and common experience for many women during pregnancy. It is important for women to seek medical advice if their symptoms are severe or persistent, and to engage in self-care strategies to promote their overall health and well-being.