Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It generally begins in the first trimester of pregnancy, at around 6 to 8 weeks of gestation, and resolves for most people by 20 weeks of gestation, although it can persist until delivery.[1] Hyperemesis gravidarum is different from morning sickness, which is a common form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that is mild to moderate in nature and occurs in about 80% of pregnancies. Conversely, hyperemesis gravidarum affects about 1% to 3% of pregnancies.[2]
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a leading cause of hospitalization during pregnancy and can result in dehydration, weight loss, electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies.[3] It can also negatively affect psychosocial well-being, provoking feelings of depression and anxiety.[4] In very serious cases, it can adversely affect the fetus and is associated with preterm birth, low birth weight babies, and small for gestational age babies.[5]