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What is HG?

Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a serious pregnancy complication — not bad morning sickness. Here is what every patient and partner should know.

HG vs morning sickness

  • • Vomiting more than 3–4 times per day, often unable to keep fluids down.
  • • Weight loss of 5% or more from pre-pregnancy baseline.
  • • Signs of dehydration: ketones, dark urine, dizziness, racing heart.
  • • Symptoms that don't resolve by 14–16 weeks and may last the whole pregnancy.
  • • Major impact on daily function, work, and mental health.

When to go to the ER

  • • Cannot keep down any fluids for 12+ hours.
  • • Vomiting blood or bile, or signs of severe dehydration.
  • • Confusion, double vision, or trouble walking (possible Wernicke's — needs IV thiamine).
  • • Weight loss of 10%+ from pre-pregnancy.
  • • Thoughts of ending the pregnancy because of symptoms — call your OB today.

Bring this to your provider

  • • Your HELP Score or PUQE-24.
  • • Pre-pregnancy weight and current weight.
  • • Number of vomiting episodes per day and how long they have lasted.
  • • Every medication tried, dose, and whether it helped.
  • • The treatment protocol so you can ask about the next step.

Educational content adapted from HER Foundation guidance. Not medical advice.