How is mild hyperemesis gravidarum treated?
Mild hyperemesis gravidarum is treated with simple self-care measures, such as antacids and supplemented hydration. If these don’t work to control symptoms, your doctor may recommend more aggressive treatment, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids. hospitalized for severe symptoms. In very rare cases, pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum may require total parenteral nutrition (TPN), which is a form of nutrition that’s delivered through intravenous (IV) fluids.
What are the most effective treatments for mild hyperemesis gravidarum?
Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a condition characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, and weight loss during pregnancy. HG affects 0.5-2% of pregnant women, and can have a major impact on the mother’s quality of life. Although the exact cause of HG is unknown, it is thought to be due to a combination of hormonal and psychological factors.
The most common treatment for HG is antiemetic medication, which can be taken orally, by injection, or rectally. Antiemetics work by blocking the action of the hormone responsible for nausea and vomiting (known as serotonin). The most common oral antiemetics used to treat HG are metoclopramide and ondansetron. These medications are generally safe for both the mother and the baby, and are effective in relieving symptoms in 70-80% of women with HG.
In some cases, more severe HG may require hospitalization for IV fluids and nutrition. Sometimes, a low-dose corticosteroid may be given to help reduce inflammation in the gut, which can help to relieve symptoms. In rare cases, total parenteral nutrition (TPN) may be required. This is a form of nutrition that is delivered through a vein, and is usually only necessary if the woman is unable to keep anything down, including water.
HG usually resolves itself after 20 weeks gestation, when the levels of the hormone responsible for nausea and vomiting begin to decline. However, some women may experience HG throughout their entire pregnancy. If you are suffering from HG, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for you.
We used pregnancysicknesssuport.org.uk to write this article about mild hyperemesis gravidarum. Click here to learn more.