Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP), or morning sickness, is the most common symptom experienced by pregnant women and affects 80% of pregnancies. NVP occurs across a spectrum, ranging from mild to severe, with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) representing the most extreme form. HG is a complication of pregnancy affecting 1% of pregnancies, and if left untreated can cause maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Early treatment of NVP in primary care can prevent progression to HG. This article aims to help GP trainees understand the natural history of HG and provides a framework for its assessment and management.
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