Is it NVP or HG?

If you're experiencing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy (NVP), it's essential to assess the severity and impact of your symptoms to determine whether they may indicate hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). NVP is common and typically involves occasional nausea, occasional vomiting, and discomfort that may occur at any time of the day. 

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is characterised by severe and persistent nausea and vomiting that significantly impacts daily life. If you find yourself experiencing frequent, uncontrollable vomiting, persistent nausea that interferes with your ability to eat or drink, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or substantial weight loss, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly. HG symptoms often worsen over time and may not improve with typical remedies for NVP, such as dietary changes or over-the-counter medications.

Ultimately, if you're unsure whether your symptoms indicate NVP or HG, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide a proper evaluation and diagnosis. They can assess the severity of your symptoms, monitor your hydration and nutritional status, and recommend appropriate treatment options to help alleviate your discomfort and ensure the health and well-being of both you and your baby.

THE PUQE-24 SCORE

The Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis (PUQE-24) score is a clinical tool used to assess the severity of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

Developed specifically for pregnant individuals, the PUQE-24 score provides a standardised way to quantify the frequency and intensity of symptoms, helping sufferers and healthcare providers monitor and manage pregnancy sickness effectively.

If your PUQE-24 score is:

  • between 4 – 6, you have mild NVP

  • between 7 – 12, you have moderate NVP

  • Above 13, you have severe NVP (also known as HG)

In the last 24 hours

Add the scores in brackets to calculate your PUQE-24 score for the previous 24 hours

  • Not at all (1)

    1 hour or less (2)

    2-3 hours (3)

    4-6 hours (4)

    More than 6 hours (5)

  • I did not vomit (1)

    1-2 times (2)

    3-4 times (3)

    5-6 times (4)

    7 or more times (5)

  • None (1)

    1-2 times (2)

    3-4 times (3)

    5-6 times (4)

    7 or more times (5)

While it's true that pregnancy sickness is common and often considered a normal part of pregnancy, the physical discomfort and emotional toll it can should not be underestimated. 

Experiencing any consistent amount of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy can be incredibly challenging and is deserving of care, validation, and support.

For many pregnant individuals, persistent nausea and vomiting can interfere with their ability to carry out daily activities, work responsibilities, and social engagements. It can also disrupt sleep patterns, exacerbate fatigue, and contribute to overall feelings of malaise and discomfort. The inability to keep food and fluids down can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and nutritional deficiencies, which can have serious implications for both maternal and foetal health.

It's essential for pregnant individuals to receive validation and support from their healthcare providers, as well as from their families, friends, and communities. Acknowledging the impact of pregnancy sickness, regardless of its severity, and providing compassionate care and understanding can go a long way in helping individuals cope with their symptoms and maintain their physical and emotional well-being throughout pregnancy.