Hyperemesis Gravidarum Affects 1 in 200 Pregnant Women

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Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a condition that affects approximately 1 in 200 pregnancies. (Tamay, 2011) HG is a classified as severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that results in dehydration and nutrition deficiency. (Davidson, 2012) This disorder, if not recognized early, can result in devastating complications to the mother and fetus. It is important to provide early patient education and treatment to reduce the risk of complications, hospitalization, and adverse psychological problems. (H.E.R. Foundation, 2013) Symptoms of HG include weight loss of greater than 5% of pre-pregnancy weight, frequent nausea and vomiting, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition, and ketonuria. (Davidson, 2012) These prolonged symptoms can cause the mother to have severe fatigue, decreased physical functioning, and adverse psychological affects throughout the pregnancy. (H.E.R. Foundation, 2013) Although HG can cause serious medical conditions, an early diagnosis with conjunction of non-pharmacological and pharmacological methods, outpatient treatments, hospitalization, and patient education can help support a healthy pregnancy. (Tamay, 2011)
It is not uncommon for mothers to experience nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy, however, nausea and vomiting during pregnancy should not result in dehydration, malnutrition, or need for hospitalization. (Tamay, 2011) Vitamin deficiencies, steroid hormones and Human chorionic gonadotropin have been distinguished as possible causes of HG, however, the specific cause is not known. (Tamay, 2011) There are indications of pre-pregnancy disorders that may increase the risk of HG. According to the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, “Hyperthyroid disorders, ps...

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...resolve as gestational age advances.” (Tamay, 2011) Even though this disorder can be very discouraging, the patient’s pregnancy can be greatly improved by providing early detection, patient education on non-pharmacological treatments, medications, and psychological support.

Works Cited

B. Ackley, G. L. (2006). Nursing Diagnosis Handbook (Vol. 7th edition). St. Louis, Missouri: Mosby Inc., 73, 621.Davidson, M. L. (2012). Naternal-Newborn Nursing & Women's Health (Vol. Ninth Edition). Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc., 350-352, 449-450
H.E.R. Foundation. (2013, April 18). HER Foundation. Retrieved April 10, 2014, from HER Foundation, Pioneers in HG Education and Research: http://www.helpher.org/hyperemesis-gravidarum/
Tamay, A. K. (2011, November). Hyperemesis gravidarum: Current aspect. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 31, 708-712.

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