Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy
- Article reading time: 5 minutes
Pregnancy is an exciting time, but for some women, it may come with a severe form of morning sickness called **hyperemesis gravidarum**. This condition affects fewer than 3% of pregnant women and can cause intense nausea and vomiting, leading to dehydration and weight loss. Although there is no cure for hyperemesis gravidarum, it is temporary, and there are ways to manage its symptoms.
What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of morning sickness that causes excessive — sometimes almost constant — vomiting. It can lead to:
– Dehydration
– Significant weight loss
– Difficulty carrying out daily activities
Unlike typical morning sickness, which usually subsides by the end of the first trimester, hyperemesis gravidarum often lasts longer. It generally begins between the fourth and sixth week of pregnancy and may reach its peak around the ninth to thirteenth weeks. Symptoms usually improve by the twentieth week, though not always.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of hyperemesis gravidarum is unknown, but doctors believe it is related to increased hormone levels during pregnancy. Women who experience this condition during their first pregnancy are more likely to develop it again in subsequent pregnancies. There is no known way to prevent hyperemesis gravidarum, although taking multivitamins before pregnancy may help slightly.
Complications of pregnancy-related vomiting
Hyperemesis gravidarum can cause several problems for both the mother and baby, including:
– Significant weight loss (5% is common)
– Kidney problems leading to reduced urination
– Low levels of essential minerals (electrolytes) in the body
– Muscle weakness due to malnutrition and prolonged bed rest
– Excessive saliva production
Without proper treatment, complications increase the likelihood of preterm delivery or low birth weight, which can put the baby at risk of health problems.
Treatment options for hyperemesis gravidarum
Treatment for hyperemesis gravidarum depends on the severity of the symptoms and how they affect the mother’s health. In some cases, lifestyle changes may be recommended, such as:
– Eating smaller, more frequent meals
– Drinking small amounts of fluids more often, preferably through a straw
– Eating cold foods if hot foods trigger nausea
– Drinking electrolyte-replacement sports beverages and taking nutritional supplements
– Getting enough rest and managing stress
Other treatment options may include:
– Ginger supplements (1 to 1.5 grams per day)
– Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) at doses of 10 to 25 mg, three times per day
– Vitamin B1 (thiamine) at 1.5 mg per day
– Prescription antiemetic medications, administered orally, rectally, intravenously, or via injection
– Antacids to help relieve nausea
Remember, while hyperemesis gravidarum can be a challenging condition, it is temporary, and with proper management, symptoms eventually subside. If you suspect you have hyperemesis gravidarum, consult your doctor for guidance and support.
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