Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is a severe complication of pregnancy and not a normal part of it. Approximately 13,000 women across the UK will be diagnosed with Hyperemesis Gravidarum each year. Sufferers of HG can experience symptoms starting before the pregnancy has been confirmed. Symptoms typically peak at 9-13 weeks but often last the duration of the pregnancy.When a woman has hyperemesis she will find normal functioning very difficult and struggle to maintain adequate food and fluid intake. Women can experience vomiting in excess of 50 times per day, dry retching and feel severely nauseous constantly. The condition is characterised by dehydration and weight loss of more than 5% of pre-pregnancy weight. Other symptoms women with hyperemesis may experience include; excess saliva, extremely heightened sense of smell, extreme fatigue, headaches, depression and extreme isolation. Pregnancy sickness and hyperemesis gravidarum are on a spectrum and the levels of tolerance to different symptoms will vary between women.Hyperemesis gravidarum can lead to more severe complications including oesophageal tears, muscle wasting and risk of DVT from bed rest, serious vitamin deficiency from excessive vomiting and complications from extreme dehydration. Recent research has shown increased risk of placental abruption and small for gestational age babies in cases of hyperemesis continuing in 2nd trimester. Before IV fluid was introduced hyperemesis was the leading cause of death in early pregnancy.

Questions:

1. What do you think Hyperemesis Gravidarum means?

2. Have you treated a woman with HG? 

3.How would you support a woman with HG?

4. Are you aware of the differences between HG and normal pregnancy sickness?

5. Are you aware of research in this area?

6. Are you aware of medications that can be used to treat this condition?

7. Where would you seek support and information about this condition?

8. What information would like to be made available to you?