Hyperemesis gravidarum

Abstract

Hyperemesis gravidarum describes nausea and vomiting in pregnancy severe enough to cause weight loss, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and nutritional deficiencies. The condition can render women so physically and mentally unwell that they are at increased risk of terminating a wanted pregnancy and experiencing suicidal ideation. Concerns regarding prescribing in pregnancy and inaccurate assumptions that the condition is self-limiting result in women being dismissed and having difficulty accessing appropriate care. Over the past decade, a wealth of literature has been published that gives new insights into the causes of hyperemesis gravidarum, the safety of antiemetic therapy, and short-term and long-term consequences for women with the condition and their children. This Review summarises the findings of this literature with the aim of informing decisions about the care of these women and future research priorities.