Hyperemesis

Question 1

What is hyperemesis?

Answer 1

Excessive nausea and vomiting is hyperemesis, which can result in dehydration

Linked cause = a rise in oestrogen causing nausea and rise in progesterone causing relaxation in the smooth muscle of the GI tract which delays gastric emptying

Question 2

What are signs and symptoms of hyperemesis?

Answer 2

• Dehydration
• Low BP
• Ketosis
• Prolonged and severe nausea
• Weight loss
• Headaches
• Excessive saliva

Question 3

What are women at increased risk of during pregnancy with hyperemesis?

Answer 3

At higher risk of a blood clot due to dehydration

Question 4

What is the role of the midwife?

Answer 4

• Early detection
• IV fluids
• Steroids of the neonate?
• Anti-emetics
• Emotional support
• Limited evidence but ginger 1000mg a day and Vitamins (B6 and B12)

Question 5

How is hyperemesis diagnosed?

Answer 5

• maternal weight loss
• > 3 vomits a day
• ketonuria