HG Pregnancy

All about this extreme pregnancy nausea

Pregnancy nausea is unfortunately something most women experience during pregnancy. While it’s unpleasant, it’s usually not exhausting or dangerous. This isn’t the case with HG pregnancy: it involves such extreme nausea that you become dehydrated and can’t get enough nutrients. Fortunately, it’s much rarer, but when it does happen, it can be severe enough to require hospitalization. Here, we explain what HG pregnancy is and what you can try to manage it.

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Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)

HG stands for hyperemesis gravidarum, which means “excessive pregnancy vomiting” or extreme pregnancy nausea. Regular pregnancy nausea usually fades between 12 and 20 weeks. That form is quite common; over half of all women experience some level of pregnancy nausea in the first trimester.

‘Morning Sickness’ by the end of the day?

Pregnancy nausea is often called ‘morning sickness,’ but that term is somewhat misleading. Many women feel nauseous throughout the day or only in the evening. No matter when you feel nauseous during your pregnancy, if the nausea is mild, you can often manage it with some adjustments. For example, eating small amounts of food, drinking throughout the day, and consuming ginger in food or drinks can help.

Extreme pregnancy nausea, HG pregnancy, occurs in a few cases. Read here what it is and what might help.

Dehydration and Malnutrition

For HG pregnancy, however, no home remedies are effective. It’s an extreme form of nausea and vomiting where pregnant women can’t consume or retain enough food and fluids. This leads to dehydration, and daily activities become impossible. It also results in weight loss and malnutrition. Fortunately, this form of nausea is very rare, affecting only 2% to 3% of pregnant women. Unlike regular pregnancy nausea, HG can last until the end of pregnancy.

Symptoms of HG Pregnancy

HG pregnancy has several symptoms. Not everyone experiences all of them to the same extent, but they can include:

  • Nausea
  • Frequent vomiting
  • Infrequent urination
  • Dehydration
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Sensitivity to smells, light, and motion
  • Difficulty eating and drinking
  • Severe limitation of normal activities
  • Symptoms persist beyond the first trimester

These symptoms often start early in pregnancy, certainly before 16 weeks.

Unknown Risk Factors

The cause of HG pregnancy is unknown. It may be related to a vitamin B deficiency, increased pregnancy hormones, or psychosocial factors. Some believe it’s more common with multiple pregnancies. It also seems to be more frequent among women whose mother or sister experienced it, women with obesity, or those under 30. If you had HG in a previous pregnancy, it’s uncertain whether you’ll have an increased risk in future pregnancies.

Significant Physical and Mental Impact

The consequences of HG during pregnancy can be severe. Besides feeling extremely ill due to nausea and the physical complaints that result, it can also have a psychological impact. The pregnancy feels far from pleasant, and that ‘pregnancy glow’ seems out of reach. If this happens during a time when you haven’t yet announced your pregnancy, it can feel isolating. You may also encounter misunderstanding if others say that ‘pregnancy nausea is normal,’ while HG is in a completely different category. Additionally, pregnancy hormones can make you more emotional, and some women may feel guilty. Many also worry more about their baby because of this condition.

Does Extreme Pregnancy Nausea Affect the Baby?

When it comes to your baby, you generally don’t need to worry. Your body ensures that your baby gets what it needs first. Your fat reserves will be used to nourish your baby. As a result, HG is usually not harmful to your baby.

Tips for HG Pregnancy

Many tips that help with regular pregnancy nausea often don’t work for HG. However, you can try the following, and they might help a little:

  • Eat something before you get out of bed.
  • Eat every 2 to 3 hours.
  • Don’t lie down immediately after eating—stay upright for a while.
  • When you feel less nauseous, try to eat something, and eat whatever you feel like.
  • Prepare meals when you’re feeling a bit less nauseous.
  • Drink small amounts throughout the day to prevent dehydration, but don’t drink with meals, as it can make you feel full faster and lead to vomiting.
  • Consume other foods high in water content, such as ice pops or fruit.
  • Sucking on something sour, like lemon or pickles, can help relieve nausea. Chewing gum or slowly sipping carbonated drinks (cola!) might also help.

It may also help to avoid sudden movements; for example, stand up slowly. Don’t hesitate to ask for help with tasks like grocery shopping or preparing meals.

Hospitalization

Are you suffering from HG and struggling to get or keep enough food and fluids? If so, you may need to be hospitalized. A urine test will determine the level of dehydration, and you may receive an IV drip and/or anti-nausea medication. You and your baby will be closely monitored in the hospital to ensure the baby is growing well and your organs are functioning properly.

Questions About Nausea or HG During Pregnancy?

Whether you’re dealing with mild nausea or extreme nausea, you can always reach out to us. If you have concerns or questions, feel free to ask—we’re here to help! The midwives in Amsterdam-Zuid are ready to assist you.

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