Factors associated with hyperemesis gravidarum

Abstract

Factors associated with hyperemesis gravidarum G. Keren1; , G. Ayala1 1Nursing Department, Faculty of Social and Community Sciences, Ruppin Academic Center, Emeq-Hefer, 4025000 (Israel) Summary Introduction: Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy (NVP) is a common health condition during pregnancy, often referred to as ‘morning sickness’. The most severe degree is Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). The reasons for this phenomenon are still somewhat unclear. Methods: The sample included 201 fertility-age women, who had experienced at least one pregnancy. Data were gathered by a questionnaire that included sociodemographic questions and validated questionnaires: BSI, anxiety state and anxiety trait. Results: A relationship was found between existing gastrointestinal disorders and HG, and anxiety state and HG. Logistic regression significantly showed that previous gastrointestinal disorders predicted HG. Discussion: It seems that the emotional state and physical condition are related to HG, and that women with gastrointestinal diseases are more likely to suffer from HG. Key words: Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG); Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy (NVP); Somatization; Anxiety.