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Nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy can range from uncomfortable to debilitating. Unfortunately, they’re often the most common early pregnancy symptoms. Whether you have mild morning sickness or severe hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), we offer the compassionate and knowledgeable expertise of our OB/GYN providers.
Identifying Hyperemesis Gravidarum early is often difficult because it is frequently mistaken for “normal” morning sickness, especially in the first trimester when nausea is expected. We utilize a clinically validated tool, developed by the HER Foundation, known as the HELP Score, to assess the severity of your symptoms and provide targeted treatment accordingly. Early intervention is key, and we can tailor a plan to address your challenges and past pregnancy history.
IV hydration can be invaluable to women who can’t keep down fluids because of nausea and vomiting. Dehydration becomes a serious concern in the case of moderate to severe forms of hyperemesis gravidarum and even in normal morning sickness. With IV hydration, we can deliver fluids, electrolytes, and vitamins directly to your bloodstream. This can give you more energy and improve the health of both you and your baby.
Nausea can prevent you from getting the nutrients you and your baby need from your diet. We can introduce pregnancy-safe anti-nausea medications through IV therapy, as well as support your health and your baby’s. We’ll work with you and your detailed medical history to find the right therapies to minimize side effects.
Getting the right nutrients from your diet can feel almost impossible when it’s difficult to eat or drink. Our OB/GYN providers can provide:
Recent research has identified GDF15 (Growth Differentiation Factor 15) as a key biological driver of Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). During pregnancy, it is secreted by the placenta, and levels rise dramatically in early gestation. GDF15 interacts with a receptor in the hindbrain, the part of the brain responsible for regulating nausea and vomiting. Research suggests that women who experienced HG in previous pregnancies may experience worsening in future pregnancies. Symptoms can start as early as week 4 and may worsen between weeks 8 and 11.
It’s thought that nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy are caused by hormonal changes, such as higher levels of estrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). In most women, nausea and vomiting begin at around 5-6 weeks but can become worse at weeks 8-11. HG may start earlier.
Morning sickness can actually occur at any time of the day. Certain risk factors can make it more likely, such as:
Morning sickness can become hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) when it leads to significant weight loss and dehydration because of challenges with eating and drinking.
Call or text to book a free, 15-minute consultation with our team. At Materna, we specialize in supporting women during the earliest and most crucial phase of this important journey. Contact us today to get started.
