Pregnancy is often described as a beautiful journey, but for some women, it can be accompanied by extreme challenges. One such condition is Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)—a severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy that goes far beyond typical morning sickness.
What Is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a pregnancy complication marked by intense, persistent nausea and vomiting. Unlike common morning sickness, which affects many pregnant women in the first trimester, HG can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Weight loss (more than 5% of pre-pregnancy weight)
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Hospitalization in severe cases
This condition usually begins between weeks 4 and 10 of pregnancy and may continue beyond the first trimester, sometimes lasting the entire pregnancy.
What Causes It?
The exact cause of HG is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:
- Elevated hormone levels (especially hCG and estrogen)
- Genetic predisposition
- History of HG in a previous pregnancy
- Multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins, triplets)
Symptoms of Hyperemesis Gravidarum
- Severe nausea that doesn’t ease
- Vomiting multiple times a day
- Inability to keep food or fluids down
- Rapid weight loss
- Dizziness or fainting
- Reduced urination
How Is Hyperemesis Gravidarum Diagnosed?
At Mascot Healthcare, our professionals carefully assess symptoms, check for signs of dehydration, and may recommend lab tests or a pelvic scan to rule out other causes of persistent vomiting, such as molar pregnancy.
Treatment and Care
Managing HG involves a combination of lifestyle, dietary, and medical support:
- Intravenous (IV) fluids to treat dehydration
- Vitamin and electrolyte supplements
- Anti-nausea medications (prescribed)
- Nutritional support if oral intake is not possible
- Emotional support and rest
We offer antenatal care and scans to monitor mother and baby, ensuring safety and support throughout the pregnancy journey.
When to Seek Help
If you are pregnant and vomiting excessively—especially if you cannot keep fluids down—it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
At Mascot Healthcare, we care deeply about every stage of your reproductive health. If you're concerned about symptoms of Hyperemesis Gravidarum, our clinic is here to help.
📞 Book an antenatal consultation or scan today.