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This condition means uncontrollable, severe, persistent nausea and
vomiting seen during pregnancy. It is also known as morning sickness. It is
commonly seen during the 1st trimester of pregnancy particularly during the
8th to 12th week. The symptoms usually resolve by the 16th week or in the
2nd trimester. There is increased prevalence in multiple and molar
pregnancies.
The precise cause of this condition is still unknown but studies show that
the rapidly rising levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin
secreted by the fetus and also the increasing estrogen levels in the mother
play a role. The nausea and vomiting experienced by the mother is more worse
when the pregnancy is multiple or there are more than one baby inside the
mother’s womb. In rare conditions, such as the presence of hydatidiform
mole, nausea and vomiting becomes unbearable.
Nausea and vomiting is a normal occurrence during pregnancy and
researchers believe that this is a protective mechanism. Many of these foods
that mothers react to may contain certain substances that may cause harm to
the fetus during the first trimester. It is also observed that the risk of
miscarriage is higher in women without the symptoms.
Although the condition is protective, it is also harmful to both mother
and child. It can cause dehydration when severe, and may result to weight
loss, nutritional deficiency, abnormal electrolyte levels, and acid-base
imbalance. Administration of IV fluid is done for the severe cases.
Decreased skin turgor is a sign of dehydration.
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