Pregnant Kate suffers from Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a form of extreme morning sickness. Many women suffer in silence, as the worst of it occurs in the beginning of the pregnancy, a time when many are still keeping the announcement quiet. Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, and the royal family kept her pregnancy under wraps, until she needed to be hospitalized for hyperemesis gravidarum. Without management, this condition can lead to unhealthy weight loss, dehydration and low blood pressure.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a condition characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss and electrolyte disturbance. Mild cases are treated with dietary changes, rest and antacids. More severe cases often require hospitalization so that the mother can receive fluid and nutrition through an IV.

Although the absolute cause is still unknown, it is believed that this severe nausea is caused by a rise in hormone levels. The symptoms of HG usually appear between 4-6 weeks of pregnancy and may peak between 9-13 weeks. There is no know prevention of hyperemesis gravidarum but there are ways to manage it.

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