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Hyperemesis gravidarum

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Definition:

Hyperemesis gravidarum is extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that may lead to dehydration .

Alternative Names:

Nausea - persistent - in pregnancy; Vomiting - persistent - in pregnancy

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Nearly all women experience some degree of " morning sickness " -- nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. The cause of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is believed to be rapidly rising serum levels of a hormone called HCG ( human chorionic gonadotropin ) secreted by the fetus. Increased estrogen levels have also been implicated.

However, too much vomiting can interfere with the weight gain needed to sustain the pregnancy and cause dehydration, which can be harmful to both mother and child. Extreme nausea and vomiting during pregnancy may indicate a multiple pregnancy (twins or more) or, extremely rarely, a hydatidiform mole or thyroid disorder.

• Review Date: 11/8/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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