This condition means uncontrollable, severe, persistent nausea and vomiting seen during pregnancy. It is also known as morning sickness. It is commonly seen during the 1st trimester of pregnancy particularly during the 8th to 12th week. The symptoms usually resolve by the 16th week or in the 2nd trimester. There is increased prevalence in multiple and molar pregnancies.
The precise cause of this condition is still unknown but studies show that the rapidly rising levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin secreted by the fetus and also the increasing estrogen levels in the mother play a role. The nausea and vomiting experienced by the mother is more worse when the pregnancy is multiple or there are more than one baby inside the mother’s womb. In rare conditions, such as the presence of hydatidiform mole, nausea and vomiting becomes unbearable.
Nausea and vomiting is a normal occurrence during pregnancy and researchers believe that this is a protective mechanism. Many of these foods that mothers react to may contain certain substances that may cause harm to the fetus during the first trimester. It is also observed that the risk of miscarriage is higher in women without the symptoms. Although the condition is protective, it is also harmful to both mother and child. It can cause dehydration when severe, and may result to weight loss, nutritional deficiency, abnormal electrolyte levels, and acid-base imbalance. Administration of IV fluid is done for the severe cases. Decreased skin turgor is a sign of dehydration |
