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During the Healthful Woman podcast, host Dr. Nathan Fox and guest Dr. Jessica Spiegelman discuss nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and hyperemesis gravidarum and examine possible treatments. Continue reading to learn more about these pregnancy conditions and how to manage your symptoms effectively.

About Nausea, Vomiting, and Hyperemesis

People constantly downplay the impact that nausea and vomiting can have on daily life because some form of nausea and vomiting happens to most women during pregnancy. These conditions can emerge as early as a week or two after missing your period and typically peak in the first trimester and fade around 12-13 weeks of pregnancy.

Dr. Spiegelman expresses, “The majority of people have some nausea. Not everybody has vomiting. There’s a spectrum of severity of symptoms. And some people will have nausea alone, other people will have nausea and vomiting, and some people will have a severe end of the spectrum, which is hyperemesis gravidarum, which is a more serious medical condition.”

Hyperemesis Gravidarum

There is no single definition of hyperemesis gravidarum. Some possible definitions include a patient losing 5% of their body weight, experiencing nausea and vomiting multiple times a day, or not being able to handle any food. Hyperemesis can also emerge as signs of starvation and dehydration, such as ketones in the urine. This occurs in up to 1 in 50 pregnancies. This condition can pose health risks for the mother but does not usually negatively affect the fetus.

Causes of Nausea, Vomiting, and Hyperemesis

Risks of vomiting, nausea, and hyperemesis in early pregnancy include factors such as carrying twins or having a molar pregnancy, genetic predisposition, or previous experience with nausea and vomiting. However, it is essential to note that these symptoms can’t be attributed to a single cause.

Treatments for Nausea, Vomiting, and Hyperemesis

Snacking

Snacking instead of eating large meals can help mitigate your symptoms because hunger triggers nausea.

Ginger

Ginger is a nonpharmacologic treatment that can help with nausea and vomiting. Ginger candies, ginger seltzer, and ginger ale may alleviate symptoms. A nutritionist at our New York City office can provide nutrition services to help you find the best supplements for your pregnancy.

Vitamin B6 and Unisom

Vitamin B6 is another effective treatment and is safe in pregnancy. B6 is typically recommended with doxylamine or Unisom. This is an antihistamine that can help when taken in combination with B6.

Folic Acid

The most essential ingredient in the prenatal vitamin during early pregnancy is folic acid. Swapping out your large prenatal vitamin for folic acid alone during your early pregnancy can be helpful because it is a smaller pill and easier to swallow. A prenatal dietician can provide nutritional guidance to help you.

Medications

Patients who have tried the above treatments and have not found relief need to visit a doctor to discuss their medication options. Medications such as Reglan, Zofran, Pepcid, and others can mitigate your symptoms; however, these should only be taken under the guidance of a physician with a discussion of the risks and benefits.

IV Hydration

Patients who cannot stay hydrated may need to be hospitalized for IV fluids and medications. In rare cases, nutrition may need to be given through an IV.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are experiencing nausea, vomiting, or hyperemesis, it is crucial to consult with an obstetrician to discuss your treatment options. Schedule an appointment today at Carnegie Imaging for Women in New York City by filling out our online contact form on our website, and we will find the best treatment for your needs.

Carnegie Imaging for Women blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!