Hyperemesis gravidarum (from Greek hyper and Latin emesis and gravida; meaning “excessive vomiting of pregnant women”) is a severe form of morning sickness, with unrelenting, excessive pregnancy-related nausea and/or vomiting that prevents adequate intake of food and fluids. Hyperemesis is considered a rare complication of pregnancy but, because nausea and vomiting during pregnancy exist on a continuum, there is no clear boundary between common morning sickness and hyperemesis. Estimates of the percentage of pregnant women afflicted range from 0.3% to 2%.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a complication of pregnancy, defined as severe and persistent nausea and vomiting that can lead to electrolyte imbalances, weight loss and dehydration [1]. It can have negative consequences on the health of the mother and the fetus. This condition generally resolves as the pregnancy progresses, however most cases require treatment [2]. Hospitalizations and severity of complications can be minimized with early treatment [4].