Risk factors, treatments, and outcomes associated with prolonged hyperemesis gravidarum.

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with prolonged Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG).

STUDY

DESIGN

About 395 women completed a survey regarding pre-existing conditions, treatments and outcomes. Responses were compared using two-sided t-tests or the F-test.

RESULTS

Participants with prolonged HG are slightly younger and weigh more. Pre-existing factors associated with prolonged HG include allergies and a restrictive diet. Prolonged HG is associated with hematemesis, dizziness, fainting and antiemetic treatment. Following pregnancy, those with prolonged HG reported more posttraumatic stress, motion sickness, muscle weakness and infants with irritability, severe colic and growth restriction.

CONCLUSION

Multiple pre-existing conditions and poor maternal and infant outcomes were associated with prolonged HG. The most significant condition prior to pregnancy was allergies suggesting a possible autoimmune component affecting duration of HG. In addition, the most significant lifestyle choice linked to prolonged HG was a restrictive diet. Future research is needed to determine whether a change in diet prior to pregnancy may lead to a shorter duration of HG and its associated outcomes.