Pregnancy
Morning sickness does not, or should not, cause significant distress to the mother
If it does, it could be a sign you’re experiencing Hyperemesis gravidarum,” says Dr Jacqui Grassie, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, at Mediclinic Kloof.
Many pregnant women deal with morning sickness at some point. However, when nausea and vomiting become an issue that one has to deal with 24/7, to the point where it interferes with the ability to eat or drink anything, and at times getting out of bed, it is known as hyperemesis gravidarum.
What is hyperemesis gravidarum?
According to Dr Jacqui Grassie, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Mediclinic Kloof, “hyperemesis gravidarum or HG is a biologically driven disease and is linked to placental hormone GDF15. Currently, there is no way to prevent getting the disease before or when you fall pregnant.”
Who is at risk of developing hyperemesis gravidarum?
“You are more at risk of developing Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) if you have previously experienced the disease during the first pregnancy, for example,” Dr Grassie says.
Women are more likely to develop hyperemesis gravidarum if they:
- Have experienced HG in a previous pregnancy, with a recurrence risk of approximately 50% to 80%
- Have a family history of the condition
- Have inherited genetic variations involving the GDF15 gene
- Are expecting twins or higher-order multiples
- Have a molar pregnancy
How is hyperemesis gravidarum treated?
While doctors can’t change the biological cause of hyperemesis, treatment options are mainly directed at the symptoms that women experience.
“We treat HG symptomatically. I do think that sometimes doctors forget how large the psychological impact can be on women,” Dr Grasse adds.
Treatment options include:
- Early use of antiemetic medication
- Oral rehydration where possible
- Intravenous fluids to combat dehydration
- Nutritional support when eating becomes too difficult
- Vitamin B1 supplementation
- Psychological support
- Where possible, time off from work
Hyperemesis can take a toll on expecting mothers
Dr Grassie emphasises the emotional impact that hyperemesis can have on pregnant women.
“There is some thought that this is a psychological disorder. It is definitely not. This is a biological disorder and can cause significant psychological harm. It is very important that mothers receive the necessary support.”