Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of nausea and vomiting that happens during pregnancy. Hyperemesis is more severe than morning sickness. It may cause you to have nausea or vomiting all day for many days. It may also keep you from getting enough food and liquid.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You have signs of severe dehydration including little to no urine and dry mouth or lips.
- You have severe stomach pain.
- You feel too weak or dizzy to stand up.
- You see blood in your vomit or bowel movements.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You cannot keep any food or liquid down.
- You are losing weight.
- You have a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines, vitamins, or supplements may be given to help decrease nausea and vomiting.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage your symptoms:
- Eat small amounts of food every 1 to 2 hours. Some examples of good foods to eat include broth, toast, fruit, eggs, gelatin, or cottage cheese. Do not eat spicy or high-fat foods. Try to eat crackers before getting out of bed each morning. Foods and drinks with ginger, such as ginger ale, may help to decrease nausea and vomiting.
- Drink liquids as directed. You may need to drink small amounts of liquid often to prevent dehydration. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
- Rest when you need to. Start activity slowly and work up to your usual routine as you start to feel better.
- Avoid things that may make hyperemesis worse. Avoid odors, heat, and humidity. Limit noise and flickering lights.
- Weigh yourself daily if directed by your healthcare provider. You may need to keep a record of your daily weights for your healthcare provider. He or she may want to make sure you are not losing too much weight.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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