Learn About Hyperemesis Gravidarum in Pregnancy

Almost 8 out of 10 women feel sickness, nausea and vomiting in the mornings during their pregnancy. Mostly the symptoms of morning sickness reduce around the 12th to 20th week, but sometimes they last longer. Unfortunately, some women suffer from severe vomiting and nausea, so much so that they cannot retain a morsel of food or drink and throw up several times a day.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is the medical term for persistent vomiting during pregnancy, causing weight loss, volume loss and leading to ketonuria and/or ketonemia. The daily routine and health of the mother start getting impacted, and the condition may worsen in some cases and need hospitalization!

Diagnosis of the condition:

There is disagreement about the precise diagnostic standards, but frequently they are judged by and pertain to extreme cases of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

What leads to Hyperemesis during pregnancy?

The placenta releases the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG. Morning sickness is frequently mild and is commonly thought to be brought on by this (HCG) hormone. Experiencing a sharp rise of this hormone in blood levels worsens nausea and vomiting. Pregnancy-related Hyperemesis is more severe and less frequent.

Although the exact causes of HG are unclear, some research studies claim that pregnancy-related hormonal changes are a contributing factor. According to certain research, women who have experienced motion sickness, migraines, or psychological stress may be more prone to develop HG.

How is HG identified?

Diagnosis of Hyperemesis during pregnancy involves:

1. A comprehensive, detailed physical examination,
2. a complete patient history,
3. the recognition of characteristic and distinct symptoms-

●      prolonged continuous severe nausea and vomiting,

●      dehydration,

●      weight loss

Complications and Symptoms of Hyperemesis gravidarum

All these symptoms can help confirm the diagnosis of this condition. Hyperemesis gravidarum, the severe form of nausea and vomiting, as discussed earlier, commonly occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy. It typically occurs in almost 0.3% to 3% of pregnant women.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is not the usual nausea and vomiting of morning sickness in pregnancy. Thus, the HG symptoms are more concerning than the typical morning sickness many pregnant women experience. 

Symptoms of HG include:

1. If left untreated, the recurrent, prolonged, and discomfiting nausea and vomiting can result in undernourishment, dehydration, and weight loss.
2. Dehydration and lack of moisture
3. Other symptoms that women in this condition may suffer from are vertigo,  
4. feeling thirsty, tired, dizzy or lightheaded,
5. headaches,
6. Passing dark yellow, strong-smelling urine.
7. lack of proper urination,
8. sensitivity to particular foods or scents,
9. Fatigue and exhaustion.
10. weight loss 

Is Hyperemesis gravidarum a threat to the unborn child?

Stillbirth, Preeclampsia, and premature delivery have all been linked to hyperemesis gravidarum, particularly in severe cases. One to three pregnant women suffer from this condition, though many times it goes unreported as the women treat themselves with home remedies to feel better. 

But, if you are vomiting frequently and unable to retain liquids, inform your health care assistant right away. If left untreated, it can result in dehydration and other medical complications. You need the proper treatment to protect yourself and the unborn baby, so contact your doctor or midwife now!

Unlike normal pregnancy morning sickness, HG can be a challenging 16 to 20 weeks journey. In some cases, it may continue even after the baby is born, but mainly, some symptoms improve after 20 weeks. One more thing, some other conditions during pregnancy can also cause nausea and vomiting, so a detailed evaluation by your doctor will help you reach a definitive diagnosis.