Nausea & Vomiting in Pregnancy (NVP)

 

• 96% of pregnancies will experience some pregnancy sickness – NVP

• Onset 4-6 weeks

• Eases between 12-20 weeks

• Typically, short bouts of nausea, occasional vomiting episodes

• Management = diet & lifestyle

• Often anticipated, no negative physical/psychological side effects,

• Can be wanted experience indicating progressive pregnancy

 

Symptoms of HG:

 

• HG is much worse than the common NVP

• Signs/symptoms of HG include:

• Prolonged/severe nausea and vomiting

• Dehydration. 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.

• See GP/Midwife if you have severe nausea and vomiting.

• Getting help early can help avoid dehydration and weight loss.

• There are other conditions that can cause nausea and vomiting, your doctor will need to rule these out first.

 

Treating Hyperemesis Gravidarum

• Medicines used in pregnancy, including the first 12 weeks, to help improve the symptoms of HG.

• Anti-sickness (anti-emetic) drugs, vitamins (B6 and B12) and steroids, or combinations of these.

• You may need to try different types of medicine until you find what works best for you.

• You can visit the RCOG guidance to find out which medicines are safe to use in pregnancy.

• If your nausea and vomiting cannot be controlled, you may need to be admitted to hospital. This is so doctors can assess your condition and give you the right treatment to protect the health of you and your baby.

• Treatment can include intravenous fluids, which are given directly into a vein through a drip. If you have severe vomiting, the anti-sickness drugs may also need to be given via a vein or a muscle.

• The charity Pregnancy Sickness Support has information and tips on coping with nausea and vomiting, including HG.

• Sufferers often feel anxious & depressed due to illness, losses in lifestyle & misunderstanding. A supportive talking therapy can also be useful to find ways to managing the condition, reducing symptoms of anxiety or low mood, providing psychosocial support.

• A compassionate approach to care is paramount.

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If you suffer with HG, it is not your fault, you are not alone & support/treatment is available, seek medical advice asap.