For many people, morning sickness is one of the first signs of pregnancy. Despite the name, this queasy, unsettled feeling can strike at any time of day or night. But as you move into the second trimester, one question is top of mind: will the nausea finally go away?
The short answer is: for most people, yes. But for others, morning sickness can linger longer than expected. Here’s what you need to know, when to expect relief, and how to cope if it sticks around.
What Is Morning Sickness?
Morning sickness refers to nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, usually starting around week 6. It’s caused by a surge in pregnancy hormones, particularly human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and oestrogen.
According to the NHS, around 7 in 10 pregnant people experience nausea, and around half also experience vomiting. It typically begins in the first trimester and eases by the start of the second trimester.
Does Morning Sickness Stop in the Second Trimester?
For most people, morning sickness starts to ease between weeks 12 and 16 of pregnancy. As your hormone levels begin to stabilise and your placenta takes over more of the pregnancy workload, many symptoms start to subside.
That said, some people may still experience:
- Mild nausea in the mornings or after certain foods
- Heightened sensitivity to smells
- A return of symptoms when tired, stressed or hungry
If you're still feeling rough past 16 weeks, you’re not alone, a small number of people experience nausea into the second or even third trimester.
What If It Doesn’t Go Away?
Ongoing nausea and vomiting past 16 weeks is sometimes referred to as persistent pregnancy sickness. In rare cases, it can develop into hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) - a more severe form of morning sickness that can lead to dehydration and weight loss.
Signs of HG include:
- Inability to keep any food or fluids down
- Losing weight
- Dizziness or fainting
- Dark urine or infrequent urination
- Feeling depressed or isolated
If you suspect HG, speak to your GP or midwife straight away. Treatments are available, including anti-sickness medication that is safe to use during pregnancy.
Coping with Nausea in the Second Trimester
If you’re still experiencing morning sickness beyond week 12, here are some tried-and-tested ways to manage it:
- Eat little and often: An empty stomach can make nausea worse. Try small meals or snacks every 2–3 hours.
- Keep hydrated: Sip water throughout the day. Try sucking on ice cubes or using rehydration solutions if drinking is difficult.
- Try ginger or peppermint: Ginger tea, biscuits, or capsules may help calm your stomach.
- Avoid triggers: Strong smells, spicy foods, and heat can all make nausea worse.
- Rest when you can: Fatigue often makes nausea feel more intense.
- Vitamin B6: Some studies suggest this vitamin may ease nausea - ask your midwife if it’s right for you.
Emotional Impact of Prolonged Nausea
Morning sickness isn’t just a physical struggle. Constant nausea can affect your mood, sleep, and sense of wellbeing. It may also leave you feeling disconnected from the pregnancy experience.
Be kind to yourself and don’t suffer in silence. If you’re feeling low or isolated, speak to your midwife or GP. You can also contact organisations like Pregnancy Sickness Support for free help and guidance.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Don’t wait to get help - anti-nausea medications can be safe and effective
- Eat little and often to avoid an empty stomach
- Track your symptoms so you can discuss them with your midwife
- Ask your partner or family for support - rest and recovery matter
- Remember: it will pass for most people by mid-pregnancy
Morning sickness in the first trimester is incredibly common, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. The good news is that most people start to feel better by the second trimester, as hormones level out and your body adjusts.
If you’re still struggling beyond week 16, there is help available. Don’t hesitate to speak to your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Looking after your wellbeing is a vital part of caring for your baby.
