Bianca Gonzalez-Intal recently shared through Instagram that they will have a new addition to their family. Through Instagram stories, Bianca showed their first daughter, Lucia, lovingly playing with the baby in her womb. The soon-to-be Ate seems to be really excited for her new sibling.
As with most pregnant women, Bianca was not spared of some difficulty in her second pregnancy. While her first pregnancy was such a breeze, the second pregnancy had her frequenting the toilet to vomit. The sickness she felt was apparent day and night. She would vomit eight to ten times in a day and as a result, Bianca already lost nine pounds at 4.5 weeks of pregnancy.
According to Bianca, she is suffering from Hyperemesis gravidarum. Despite the consistent discomfort, Bianca is looking at the bright side of things. Her physician explained to her the persistent nausea is due to her strong pregnancy hormones, which means that there is nothing to worry about and her current condition will not affect her baby.
Hyperemesis gravidarum
Hyperemesis gravidarum is a condition during pregnancy that is manifested in severe nausea, electrolyte disturbance, vomiting, and weight loss. Symptoms may vary from mild cases to severe cases, which might require hospital admission to provide intravenous (IV) fluid and nutrition to the mothers.
Although the absolute cause is still unknown, it is believed that the rise in hormone levels during pregnancy is the cause of severe nausea experienced by the mothers. In contrast the common morning sickness, Hyperemesis gravidarum presents with nausea that does not subside and is accompanied by severe vomiting leading to severe dehydration.
Aside from severe nausea and vomiting, symptoms of Hyperemesis gravidarum include headaches, dehydration, extreme fatigue, low blood pressure, a decrease in urination, and weight loss of >5% of pre-pregnancy weight. These symptoms may be experienced between 4-6 weeks of pregnancy and symptoms may peak between 9-13 weeks. At 14-20 weeks, some relief may be experienced by most, but around 20% of pregnant women may experience the symptoms throughout the duration of their pregnancy.
Mild cases of hyperemesis gravidarum may be managed through antacids, dietary changes, and rest. For severe cases, hospitalization may be required. If you are suffering from symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum, you need to consult with your physician immediately. Do not take any medications to alleviate the symptoms. All medications during pregnancy should be discussed with your physician.
Sources: American Pregnancy Association, Bianca Gonzalez-Intal’s Instagram
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