Hyperemesis Gravidarum (Severe Pregnancy Sickness)

What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is an extreme form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, far beyond typical morning sickness. Women with HG often struggle to keep any food or fluids down, making day-to-day life challenging. This condition affects roughly 1 in 60 pregnant women, often requiring hospital treatment.

Onset and Duration
HG usually begins between 4 to 6 weeks of pregnancy, peaking around 8 weeks. While symptoms generally improve by 20 weeks, some women may experience HG throughout their entire pregnancy.

Potential Causes
The exact cause of HG remains unclear, but it is thought to be linked to hormonal changes. Factors that may increase the risk of developing HG include:

Multiple pregnancies (twins or triplets).
First-time pregnancies.
Carrying a female fetus.
Ethnic background (more common in women of African or Asian descent).
Pre-existing conditions like type 1 diabetes, high blood pressure, or thyroid issues.

Symptoms: Normal Pregnancy Sickness vs. Hyperemesis Gravidarum
HG symptoms are more severe than regular pregnancy sickness, including:

Severe and persistent vomiting, leading to dehydration.
Weight loss instead of weight gain.
Light-headedness and dizziness.
Tummy pain, fever, or diarrhea.

Also read: Will my Appetite Change During Pregnancy?

If you suspect HG, seek medical attention promptly. Keeping a diary of your symptoms can help your healthcare provider assess your condition.

Diagnosis
HG is diagnosed through:

Urine tests to check for dehydration and malnutrition.
Blood tests to rule out other conditions.
Ultrasound to check for multiple pregnancies or complications like a molar pregnancy.

Treatment Options
Treating HG usually involves anti-nausea medications, hydration, and vitamin supplementation. Most women are treated at home, but hospitalization may be necessary if symptoms are severe. In some cases, steroids might be prescribed when standard treatments are ineffective.

Impact on Baby and Mother
With proper treatment, HG is unlikely to harm your baby. However, untreated HG can lead to complications such as low birth weight. The emotional and physical toll on the mother can be significant, often leading to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety.

Long-Term Effects
HG can have lasting effects, including post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) after birth. Approximately 25% of women who experienced HG may face it again in subsequent pregnancies.

Managing HG

Seek early treatment to prevent worsening symptoms.
Ask for support from family and friends for daily tasks.
Follow cravings to find foods that stay down.
Avoid triggers like strong smells and certain foods.
Stay hydrated by sipping fluids or sucking on ice cubes.

Possible Complications
Untreated HG can lead to complications like urinary tract infections (UTIs), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and esophageal tears from excessive vomiting. Regular medical supervision is essential to manage these risks.

Conclusion
Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a challenging condition, but with early diagnosis and treatment, the risks to both mother and baby can be minimized. It’s important to seek support and treatment promptly, and to communicate with your healthcare provider about any symptoms or concerns.

Also read: Tips to Help You Sleep Comfortably During the Third Trimester