Severe Pregnancy Sickness Linked to Over 50 Percent Higher Mental Health Risks: Study Shows - Video

Imagine a world where nausea during pregnancy goes beyond mere discomfort-this is the harsh reality for women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe condition affecting nearly 3.6% of pregnancies globally.

The largest study on pregnant women with excessive nausea and vomiting (hyperemesis gravidarum), published in the journal Nature, has identified increased risks of numerous neuropsychiatric and mental health outcomes.

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is not just typical morning sickness; it’s a severe condition marked by relentless nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss of over 5% of pre-pregnancy weight. This often leads to extended hospital stays during the first trimester, where women require intravenous fluids and medications to manage symptoms. The constant vomiting can cause electrolyte imbalances, malnutrition, and even serious complications like Wernicke encephalopathy, a neurological disorder from thiamine deficiency. Beyond the physical challenges, this intense illness significantly affects mental well-being, making comprehensive, compassionate care essential for both mother and baby.

The largest international study to date, involved over 476,000 women, and revealed alarming links between HG and a variety of serious mental health conditions. Women with HG face significantly increased risks of anxiety, depression, postpartum psychosis, eating disorders, and even severe neurological disorders like Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Postpartum depression risk is nearly tripled, with many women experiencing challenges far beyond the physical symptoms.

Interestingly, the severity of physical symptoms does not always correlate with mental health impact. Women with milder physical cases often suffer profound psychological distress, highlighting a critical gap in care. Experts like Dr. Hamilton Morrin from King’s College London stress the urgent need for integrated physical and mental health support for these women.

This groundbreaking research sheds light on the invisible mental health burden of HG, urging healthcare providers to recognize and address these challenges early. A holistic approach to treatment is essential to protect the well-being of mothers and their babies, ensuring both physical health and emotional resilience throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Reference: Fejzo, M., Rocha, N., Cimino, I. et al. GDF15 linked to maternal risk of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Nature 625, 760–767 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06921-9