Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX
Lifestyle and dietary modifications for a patient experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum include:
- Encourage rest as fatigue can worsen symptoms, and advise avoiding sensory stimuli such as strong odours, heat, and noise that may trigger nausea NICE CKS.
- Recommend small, frequent meals that are protein-rich and low in carbohydrate and fat to help prevent hypoglycaemia and gastric overdistension NICE CKS.
- Suggest cold meals if nausea is related to smell, as they may be better tolerated NICE CKS.
- Advise drinking fluids little and often rather than large amounts at once to maintain hydration NICE CKS.
- Consider acupressure (e.g., over the P6 point on the wrist) as an adjunct treatment for moderate-to-severe symptoms NICE CKS,NICE NG201.
- Avoid recommending ginger for hyperemesis gravidarum as evidence shows it may worsen symptoms and damage clinician-patient trust in severe cases NICE CKS.
- Avoid medications that may exacerbate symptoms, such as iron-containing preparations, based on clinical judgement NICE CKS.
- Provide reassurance and support, and advise on sources of information and peer support groups NICE CKS.
Key References
- CKS - Nausea/vomiting in pregnancy
- NG201 - Antenatal care
- NG126 - Ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage: diagnosis and initial management
- NG247 - Maternal and child nutrition: nutrition and weight management in pregnancy, and nutrition in children up to 5 years
- NG133 - Hypertension in pregnancy: diagnosis and management