While previous studies have focused on how pregnancy queasiness affects the outcomes of pregnancies, this is the first study to look at the long-term effects of the nausea on the cognitive skills of the babies that result.

Dr. Gideon Koren, the principal investigator of the study and the director of the Motherisk Program, said the hormone swings that lead to morning sickness nausea are actually a good thing.

"It's the hormones secreted by the placenta that cause you to feel yucky, but on the other hand, they probably confer better conditions for the baby," he told Canadian Television Thursday.

"Women suffer for it, but at least it's for a good cause," he said.

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Editor:Yang Jie