Abstract
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy are a common phenomenon affecting up to 80% of all pregnant women. Although usually considered a normal part of pregnancy, it can have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life and in severe cases can lead to hospitalisation.
The exact cause of nausea and vomiting is not fully understood, but is thought to be related to hormonal changes and may serve an evolutionary purpose in protecting the developing fetus from potentially harmful substances. Although there is no known causal cure for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, there are various treatments to help manage symptoms, involving dietary changes, medications and alternative practices.
It is important that health care providers recognize the individual impact of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and provide affected women with knowledgeable information, appropriate support and treatment.