EXCESSIVE nausea affects up to 3.6 per cent of pregnant women and NICE has published draft guidance on treatment options.
Nearly 80 per cent of pregnant women experience "morning sickness" with most conditions improving by around 16 to 20 weeks. However, between 0.3 and 3.6 per cent of pregnant women experience excessive nausea and vomiting, known as hyperemesis gravidarum, which can sometimes lead to hospitalisation.
New recommendations from NICE advise the use of pharmacological anti-emetics, acupressure, and intravenous fluids to treat extreme cases.
Dr Edward Morris, President at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: "We’re very pleased that NICE have updated their guidance on antenatal care and have included the debilitating condition hyperemesis gravidarum. This new guidance now reflects and is consistent with the guidance produced by the RCOG in 2016.
"We would encourage all hospitals to implement and follow these guidelines so that women are provided with high-quality care throughout their pregnancy. It’s important pregnant women feel listened to and are offered regular check-ups, information and support throughout. We know the pandemic has added a layer of anxiety for many women who are navigating pregnancy under difficult restrictions, and we support a consistent approach to care across all Trusts."
The draft guidance is out for public consultation until 24 March 2021.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.
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