New guidelines for nausea in pregnancy

New guidelines from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have been released in regards to the management of sickness and vomiting in pregnancy, as well as hyperemesis gravidarum.

Vomiting and sickness in early pregnancy commonly affects approximately 7 out of 10 women, and usually settles from around week 14. For some however, it can persist throughout the pregnancy, and whilst regularly termed ‘morning sickness’, it often occurs throughout the day. When vomiting is severe however, hyperemesis gravid arum can be diagnosed. This is characterised by prolonged, severe vomiting, dehydration, and in some cases, low blood pressure.

Due to the impact all degrees of sickness during pregnancy can have on quality of life, these new guidelines – the first of their kind nationally – can now advise professionals how to support women during pregnancy. The guidance contains information on diagnosis, monitoring, treatment and the potential effects of the condition, with reference to mental health and follow up support.

Treatments suggested include using antiemetics drugs to treat nausea, as well as complementary therapies such as the use of ginger, acupressure and hypnotherapy. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended with the support of midwives, nurses, dieticians and mental health teams.

The RCM (Royal College of Midwives) director for midwifery, Louise Silverton has commented: “This is an important guideline that acknowledges how disruptive nausea and vomiting can be for women during pregnancy, as well as providing treatment options.

In addition it covers guidance for care for women with excess vomiting that requires admission to hospital for the management of dehydration and under-nutrition.

Much nausea and vomiting is in early pregnancy, sometimes before women have entered the maternity care services. Where women have received midwifery care, it is important that women know how to contact services when vomiting becomes persistent or debilitating”

Read the full guidelines here.

Photo credit: BBC