Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is an uncommon aspect of pregnancy only affecting about 3% of pregnant women. Defined by extreme nausea and vomiting, HG is sometimes called severe morning sickness.
Medical experts are not sure what causes it or why it only happens in some pregnancies. Most likely, the rapid production of pregnancy hormones like Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) and Estrogen lead to HG.
Women who have had HG before, are carrying multiple babies, are pregnant for the first time, have a history of motion sickness or headaches, or a family history of morning sickness or HG are at the highest risk for HG.
How is it different from morning sickness?
There are several key differences between Hyperemesis Gravidarum and morning sickness.
Morning sickness unusually happens in the morning or in the evening but not all day. With HG, nausea and vomiting last around the clock.
With morning sickness, you can keep food and liquids down during the day. HG causes you to vomit throughout the day.
You will gain normal pregnancy weight with morning sickness. You may lose weight with HG.
Morning sickness usually resolves itself at the of the first trimester. HG usually resolves itself at delivery.
Many people find relief for morning sickness with over-the-counter remedies. HG, because of the risk of weight loss and dehydration, may require prescription medication or IV liquids.
When to seek treatment
If you are vomiting more than three times a day, losing weight, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, peeing less than usual, having headaches, or fainting, you should seek help from your healthcare provider.
How may HG be treated
First, your healthcare provider may encourage lifestyle changes like eating small, bland meals every 2-3 hours rather than larger meals three times a day; eating ginger chews and drinking ginger tea; or wearing pressure-point wristbands.
Your provider may also have you try over-the-counter anti-nausea medicine.
If the situation becomes more serious, prescription medicine, intravenous fluids, or tube feeding might be recommended.
While you can’t prevent Hyperemesis Gravidarum, it goes away during or at the end of pregnancy with no lasting effects on mother or baby.
Let us help you!
Our team at Tennessee Family Doulas is ready to help you during your pregnancy. We would love to be part of your support team, and our experience and expertise can bring the peace of mind and support you need. Reach out to learn more about our services!
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