What is a common symptom of early pregnancy due to hormonal changes?

Prepare for the Lippincott Maternal Health Exam with comprehensive study materials. Utilize flashcards, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations. Ace your exam!

Morning sickness is a common symptom of early pregnancy primarily caused by hormonal changes, particularly the rise in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen levels. These hormones play a critical role in the early stages of pregnancy, supporting the developing fetus and preparing the body for the demands of pregnancy.

Morning sickness typically manifests as nausea and vomiting, often occurring during the early morning hours; however, it can also happen at any time of the day. This symptom affects many pregnant individuals and is generally recognized as a normal part of early pregnancy. While nausea and vomiting alone are also correct symptoms related to early pregnancy, referring specifically to "morning sickness" encompasses the experience of nausea and vomiting in this context, making it the best descriptor of a common early pregnancy symptom.

The other listed symptoms can occur during early pregnancy as well, but "morning sickness" captures the specific condition that many individuals experience. Fatigue, for example, is indeed common due to increased progesterone levels and the body's adaptation to pregnancy changes. Frequent urination can occur due to hormonal effects and the growing uterus exerting pressure on the bladder. However, morning sickness is the most defining symptom during this phase as it is closely tied to the hormonal shifts in early pregnancy.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy