What to expect from antenatal care for hyperemesis gravidarum

Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe pregnancy sickness that can make it difficult to keep fluids, food or medicines down. Your team may assess vomiting, urine output, weight change, pulse, blood pressure and signs of dehydration. Blood tests can check salts, kidney function and other effects of prolonged vomiting. Care may include anti-sickness medicine, fluids through a vein and nutrition support when oral intake is not enough. The team may review emotional wellbeing, arrange repeat appointments and monitor fetal growth as pregnancy continues. Treatment choices are discussed in relation to pregnancy and your medical history.

Keep a record of fluids, food, vomiting episodes, urine changes and medicines if you can. Take prescribed anti-sickness medicine according to the instructions, and tell the team if it is not helping or cannot be kept down. Try small sips and foods that are manageable while following the plan you were given. Ask for help with a safe medicine schedule, rest, work and support at home. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you are becoming dehydrated or unable to drink.

Contact your maternity team promptly if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little or dark urine, feel faint, have a racing heartbeat, vomit blood, develop severe abdominal pain or notice reduced baby movements. Seek emergency help for collapse, confusion, severe weakness or breathing difficulty. Follow the assessment route recommended by your maternity unit.

Ask which anti-sickness medicines are suitable, how dehydration will be assessed, when fluids or nutrition support are needed, how fetal growth will be followed and whom to call if symptoms worsen.