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Often called morning sickness, though this is an outdated term as sickness can occur at any time of day, you can usually go about your normal routine without too much hinderance, and symptoms usually ease in the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

Pregnancy Sickness Support: our-services

Pregnancy Sickness Support: Hyperemesis Gravidarum video