Healthy Mom

Find out if you have Severe Morning Sickness

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Severe Morning Sickness. It's quick, free, and you’ll get your confidential results instantly.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Anemia Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Anemia.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Prenatal Anxiety Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Anxiety.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Prenatal Depression Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Depression.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Gestational Hypertension Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Hypertension.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Gestational Diabetes Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Diabetes.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Pelvic Girdle Pain Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Pelvic Girdle Pain (also known as Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction).

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Prenatal Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Sleep Disorder.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Infections Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Infections.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Thyroiditis Test

This test reports on a postpartum mother's risk for Postpartum Thyroiditis.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester, Post-Birth

Breast Infection Test

This test reports on a new or expectant mother's risk for Breast Infection (also known as Mastitis).

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Anxiety Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Anxiety.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Depression Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Depression.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Sleep Disorder.

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Post-Birth

Diastasis Recti Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Diastasis Recti.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Preeclampsia.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Preeclampsia.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Trauma Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Trauma.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Obstetric Cholestasis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Obstetric Cholestasis.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Deep Vein Thrombosis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Cardiomyopathy Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Postpartum Cardiomyopathy.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Pregnancy-related OCD Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Pregnancy-related OCD.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Psychosis Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Psychosis.

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Symptoms & Causes

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of morning sickness that can cause significant health issues during pregnancy. Unlike typical morning sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum involves extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting, leading to dehydration and weight loss.

Symptoms

Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by more intense symptoms compared to regular morning sickness. Key symptoms include:

  • Severe Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea and vomiting that does not subside and can last throughout the day.
  • Dehydration: Symptoms of dehydration such as dry mouth, extreme thirst, infrequent urination, and dark-colored urine.
  • Weight Loss: Significant weight loss of 5% or more of pre-pregnancy body weight due to the inability to keep food down.
  • Electrolyte Imbalance: Symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and muscle cramps due to imbalances in essential minerals.
  • Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and weakness caused by insufficient nutrient intake and dehydration.
  • Reduced Urine Output: Low urine output due to decreased fluid intake and dehydration.
  • Rapid Heartbeat: Increased heart rate as the body tries to compensate for dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.

Causes

The exact cause of hyperemesis gravidarum is not well understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:

  • Hormonal Changes: Rapid increases in pregnancy hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen are thought to play a role in causing severe nausea and vomiting.
  • Genetics: A family history of hyperemesis gravidarum can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
  • Multiple Pregnancies: Women carrying twins or multiples are at a higher risk due to higher levels of pregnancy hormones.
  • Previous Hyperemesis Gravidarum: Women who experienced hyperemesis gravidarum in a previous pregnancy are more likely to experience it again.
  • Gastrointestinal Conditions: Pre-existing gastrointestinal issues such as acid reflux or certain gastrointestinal infections may contribute to the severity of symptoms.
  • Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety may exacerbate the symptoms, although they are not direct causes of the condition.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe and potentially dangerous form of morning sickness that requires medical attention. Understanding its symptoms and causes can help in seeking timely treatment to manage the condition effectively and ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Hyperemesis gravidarum requires timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Early intervention is crucial to managing this condition effectively.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum involves a thorough evaluation of symptoms and may include several diagnostic tests:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: The healthcare provider will review the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical examination to assess the severity of symptoms and check for signs of dehydration and weight loss.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, and other potential complications. These tests help evaluate the levels of essential minerals and overall health status.
  • Urine Tests: Urine tests can help detect ketones, which are produced when the body breaks down fat for energy due to insufficient food intake. The presence of ketones indicates dehydration and malnutrition.
  • Ultrasound: An ultrasound may be conducted to rule out other potential causes of severe nausea and vomiting, such as molar pregnancy or multiple pregnancies, and to confirm the viability of the pregnancy.

Treatment

Treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum focuses on managing symptoms, ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration, and preventing complications. The following approaches are commonly used:

Medications:

  • Anti-nausea Medications: Prescription anti-nausea medications (antiemetics) can help reduce nausea and vomiting. Commonly used medications include ondansetron, metoclopramide, and promethazine.
  • Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Vitamin B6 and other supplements may be prescribed to address deficiencies and alleviate symptoms.

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes:

  • Small, Frequent Meals: Eating small, frequent meals can help manage nausea and prevent an empty stomach.
  • Hydration: Sipping fluids throughout the day, including electrolyte-rich drinks, can help maintain hydration.
  • Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding foods and smells that trigger nausea can be beneficial.

Supportive Care:

  • Emotional and psychological support from healthcare providers, family, and friends is essential to help manage the stress and anxiety associated with hyperemesis gravidarum.

Hospitalization:

  • In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes to correct dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.

Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications. Women experiencing severe morning sickness should seek medical advice to receive the necessary care and support for a healthy pregnancy.

When to Seek Treatment

Hyperemesis gravidarum can significantly impact a pregnant woman’s health and well-being. Recognizing the signs and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for effective management and ensuring the safety of both the mother and the baby. Seek treatment if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Persistent Nausea and Vomiting: If nausea and vomiting are severe and persist beyond the first trimester, or if they do not improve with typical morning sickness remedies, it is important to seek medical advice.
  • Inability to Keep Food or Liquids Down: If a woman is unable to keep food or fluids down for more than 24 hours, medical attention is necessary to prevent dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.
  • Signs of Dehydration: Symptoms such as dark urine, infrequent urination, dry mouth, dizziness, and extreme thirst indicate dehydration and require prompt medical intervention.
  • Significant Weight Loss: Losing more than 5% of pre-pregnancy body weight due to persistent vomiting is a serious concern and warrants medical evaluation.
  • Electrolyte Imbalance: Symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, headaches, and rapid heartbeat may indicate an electrolyte imbalance and require treatment.
  • Severe Fatigue and Weakness: Extreme tiredness and weakness that interfere with daily activities should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
  • Mental Health Concerns: Persistent nausea and vomiting can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress. Seeking support from a healthcare provider is important for mental and emotional well-being.
  • Recurring Symptoms: If symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum return after an initial period of improvement, further medical evaluation is necessary.

Importance of Timely Treatment

Seeking timely treatment for hyperemesis gravidarum is essential for several reasons:

  • Preventing Complications: Early intervention can help prevent severe dehydration, malnutrition, and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Ensuring Maternal and Fetal Health: Proper treatment supports the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby, ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration.
  • Alleviating Symptoms: Effective management can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms, improving the mother’s quality of life during pregnancy.
  • Providing Emotional Support: Timely medical care can also provide emotional and psychological support, helping the mother cope with the challenges of severe morning sickness.

Pregnant women experiencing severe, persistent nausea and vomiting, signs of dehydration, significant weight loss, or any other concerning symptoms should seek medical advice promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing hyperemesis gravidarum effectively and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.