Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy
Hyperemesis (HG) is a condition that starts early in pregnancy, before a gestational age of 16 weeks, and is characterized by severe nausea and/or vomiting, inability to eat and/or drink normally and strongly limits daily activities.
The spectrum of pregnancy sickness ranges from mild nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) to hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), with 70-90% of pregnancies affected to some degree.
Mild NVP
Often called morning sickness, though this is an outdated term as sickness can occur at any time of day, you can usually go about your normal routine without too much hinderance, and symptoms usually ease in the second trimester.
Moderate – Severe NVP
Moderate to severe NVP is often mistaken for mild NVP, which can lead to a barrier in treatment. Unlike Mild NVP sufferers will experience more persistent nausea and vomit more often.
Help and Treatment
There are number of safe medications available to treat the symptoms of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy including anti sickness, antacid and laxatives. Please see links below for further information and support.
If you think you might benefit from treatment, please contact your community midwife via the number provided in your notes or your GP.
Some people will benefit from rehydration with IV fluids (drip) or medication. If you are unable to tolerate oral fluids or unable to take your regular medications due to nausea and vomiting, please urgently contact your GP, midwife or early pregnancy unit. Evenings and weekends you should attend the emergency department.
External links and support
Pregnancy Sickness Support: what is hyperemesis gravidarum
Pregnancy Sickness Support: treatments