Morning Sickness Care in Manhattan Beach
Nausea and vomiting are among the most common early pregnancy symptoms, affecting the majority of expectant mothers. Despite the name, morning sickness can strike at any time of day and can make work, sleep, and eating feel overwhelming. At Cove Midwifery and Women's Health in Manhattan Beach, CA , our Certified Nurse-Midwives help you find relief, stay nourished and hydrated, and recognize when symptoms need closer attention.
What Causes Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness is thought to be linked to the rapid rise of pregnancy hormones, especially human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen, during the first trimester. Symptoms usually begin around week 6, peak between weeks 8 and 12, and ease for most women by weeks 14 to 16. Factors such as carrying twins, a history of motion sickness or migraines, and nausea in a previous pregnancy can make symptoms more intense. Your first visits in our prenatal care program are the ideal time to talk through what you are experiencing.
Common Symptoms
- Nausea that comes and goes or lingers throughout the day
- Vomiting, especially on an empty stomach
- Strong aversions to certain foods or smells
- Fatigue and difficulty eating regular meals
- Increased saliva or a metallic taste
How Our Midwives Help You Feel Better
Our approach starts with time. Because visits at Cove last 30 to 60 minutes, we can review your daily routine, eating patterns, and triggers in detail. Many women improve with small, frequent meals, protein-rich snacks, ginger, staying hydrated between meals rather than with them, and adjusting prenatal vitamin timing. Vitamin B6 and, when appropriate, safe pregnancy-approved medications can also be discussed. Our integrative network includes nutritional consultants who can help build a realistic eating plan, a benefit of the Cove Concierge Membership.
When Nausea Becomes Hyperemesis Gravidarum
A small percentage of women develop hyperemesis gravidarum, a severe form of nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration and weight loss. Signs include being unable to keep fluids down for a day, dark urine, dizziness, and losing weight. If symptoms become severe, our in-practice Board-Certified OB/GYNs are involved immediately so you can receive IV fluids or additional treatment without delay. Learn how our collaborative model works on our About page.
Supporting Your Whole Pregnancy
Morning sickness can be emotionally draining as well as physically exhausting. We check in on your mood and stress during every visit and can connect you with perinatal mental health support. As your pregnancy progresses, we will continue to monitor for other concerns such as gestational diabetes and high blood pressure in pregnancy, and help you prepare for birth through childbirth education and labor and delivery planning. If you are still trying to conceive, preconception counseling can help you prepare your body for a healthy first trimester. Browse all conditions we treat or explore our services.
Morning Sickness FAQs
When does morning sickness usually start and stop?
Symptoms typically begin around week 6 of pregnancy, peak between weeks 8 and 12, and improve for most women by weeks 14 to 16. Some women experience nausea longer.
Is morning sickness harmful to my baby?
Mild to moderate morning sickness is not harmful to your baby. Severe vomiting that causes dehydration or weight loss needs prompt medical care to protect both of you.
What foods help with nausea during pregnancy?
Small, frequent meals, bland carbohydrates, protein snacks, ginger, and cold foods often help. Sipping fluids between meals rather than with meals can also reduce nausea.
Are there safe medications for morning sickness?
Yes. Vitamin B6 and certain pregnancy-safe medications may be recommended depending on your symptoms. Always speak with your midwife before starting any medication or supplement.
When should I call my midwife about nausea?
Call if you cannot keep fluids down for 24 hours, notice dark urine or very little urine, feel dizzy or faint, or are losing weight.
What is hyperemesis gravidarum?
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of pregnancy nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration. At Cove, our in-practice OB/GYNs collaborate on care when this occurs.
How do I schedule a prenatal visit for morning sickness?
Call (844) 808-COVE or request an appointment. We recommend starting prenatal care as soon as you have a positive pregnancy test.
Find Relief From Morning Sickness
You don’t have to push through nausea alone. Call Cove Midwifery and Women's Health at (844) 808-COVE or request an appointment to begin personalized prenatal care in Manhattan Beach.