Which discomfort is commonly experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy?

During the first trimester of pregnancy, nausea and vomiting are common discomforts experienced by many women. This condition, often referred to as "morning sickness," typically arises due to hormonal changes, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen levels. These hormonal fluctuations can affect the gastrointestinal system, leading to feelings of nausea.

Morning sickness can vary in intensity and may occur at any time of the day, not just in the morning. It usually starts around the sixth week of pregnancy and can last until about the end of the first trimester, although some women may experience it for a longer duration.

Other options, such as varicose veins, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes, are typically associated with later stages of pregnancy. Varicose veins can develop as the pregnancy progresses and blood volume increases, while preeclampsia and gestational diabetes often manifest later in pregnancy, usually after the 20-week mark. Therefore, nausea and vomiting is the most characteristic discomfort of the first trimester.