Nausea, vomiting and anaemia are common complications of pregnancy. A case of hyperemesis and unexplained anaemia in a woman of South Asian ethnicity is presented. Further investigation revealed hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis insufficiency and lead toxicity, most likely secondary to an Ayurvedic powder she had recently ceased. The importance of considering adulteration of complementary and alternative preparations as a cause of pregnancy complications is discussed.
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