Hyperemesis gravidarum is much more severe than the normal pregnancy sickness experienced by many moms-to-be.
For most women, morning sickness improves or stops completely between weeks 16 to 20.
But some women are violently ill all day long and are unable to keep down any food or liquid, sometimes resulting in hospitalisation.
Signs and symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum
This severe sickness is called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG).
Signs and symptoms of HG include:
- prolonged and severe nausea and vomiting
- being dehydrated. Symptoms of dehydration include feeling thirsty, tired, dizzy or lightheaded, not peeing very much, and having dark yellow and strong-smelling pee
- weight loss
- low blood pressure (hypotension) when standing.
Unlike regular pregnancy sickness, HG may not get better by 16 to 20 weeks. It may not clear up completely until the baby is born, although some symptoms may improve at around 20 weeks.
What causes hyperemesis gravidarum?
It's not known what causes HG, or why some women get it and others do not. Some experts believe it is linked to the changing hormones in your body that occur during pregnancy.
There is some evidence that it runs in families, so if you have a mother or sister who has had HG in a pregnancy, you may be more likely to get it yourself.
If you have had HG in a previous pregnancy, you are more likely to get it in your next pregnancy.
Treating hyperemesis gravidarum
There are medicines that can be used in pregnancy, including the first 12 weeks, to help improve the symptoms of HG. You must consult your doctor or midwife immediately if you are vomiting frequently and can't keep down food or liquids.
If your nausea and vomiting can't be controlled, you may need to be admitted to hospital.
Will hyperemesis gravidarum harm my baby?
HG can make you feel very unwell, but it's unlikely to harm your baby if treated effectively.
Other side effects of HG
In addition to the severe sickness, you may also feel anxious, scared, isolated and even depressed.
Talk to your partner, close friends and family for support, and speak to a healthcare professional if you're struggling to cope.