Introduction
You have been seen by the medical team in the Emergency Department (ED).
You have been diagnosed with severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, also known as hyperemesis.
Treatment
Most pregnant women (80%) suffer some nausea and vomiting and it usually (but not always) gets better by itself by 16 weeks. Until then it cannot be cured but some treatments can help you feel better.
Antiemetics
These are medicines to reduce or stop your sickness. They are safe in pregnancy and should be taken regularly rather than when the nausea and vomiting have become very bad. Sometimes two or more different medicines need to be used together.
Vitamins
After vomiting for several days then you may need vitamin replacement with thiamine tablets.
You should continue to take your usual folic acid if you can.
What else can you do to help reduce your symptoms?
Ginger
Scientific studies show that some women feel better with ginger (such as ginger tea, ginger biscuits or ginger capsules).
Acupressure
Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wrist Bands Wristbands (such as those used for travel sickness) can be helpful.
Food
You should try small amounts of food regularly rather than a whole meal.
Drinks
You should try to take regular small sips of water or another drink. You can also try sucking ice-lollies or ice cubes if this is easier.
Rest
Try to rest and sleep as much as possible.
Stop iron
If you are taking iron tablets (such as ferrous sulphate) then stop this for the time being as it will make your symptoms worse.
Please remember
Nausea and vomiting is generally not harmful for the pregnancy. In fact, miscarriage is less common in women with severe vomiting.
We understand that feeling sick all the time and vomiting is both distressing and tiring, and that it can have an effect on how you feel, your work and your social relationships. Please see your GP if you feel that you need mental health support.
When to seek further medical advice
You should return to the Emergency Department if you:
- See blood in the vomit
- Have a fainting episode
- Become so light-headed that you can’t stand up
- Are unable to keep fluids down at all
- Develop abnormal movement or position of the eyes, face or head after taking the antiemetic medicine.
Where can I get more information?
Call 111 when you need medical help fast, or go to the NHS website: www.
You may also find information and support from:
Pregnancy Sickness Support
www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk
024 7638 2020
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists https://www.rcog.org.uk/en/patients/patient- leaflets/pregnancy-sickness/