Nausea and even vomiting during pregnancy can be normal, but when is it too much? We break that all down for you here!

Nausea sucks. Studies have found that up to 70% of women suffer from morning sickness during pregnancy. What a treat. And “morning” sickness can strike at any time of day, whether you’re on the train to work or sitting at your desk in the middle of the day while your coworker eats a tuna sandwich. 

For some women, though, the morning sickness goes past “normal” and enters the realm of severe illness. Ginger gummies and saltines just won’t cut it. This condition, called  hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), is defined by severe nausea and vomiting. It can last well beyond the first trimester, and can be dangerous if left untreated. 

So how do you know if what you’re going through is normal, or more severe? As with most things in pregnancy, it’s a matter of degrees. For the most part, if your nausea can be managed with food, hydration, and some good old-fashioned dry-heaving, it probably isn’t HG. 

The HER Foundation, an organization focused on HG awareness, compiled a checklist that might help you determine whether it’s time to take a trip to the doctor about your nausea.

As always, please consult with a medical professional if you are concerned about your health or happiness. Normal pregnancy nausea is no joke; it stinks, there’s no question. Even if it’s not HG, that doesn’t mean it’s easy!

Per the HER Foundation, here are the normal symptoms of nausea in pregnancy (not HG):

• You can go about your life, behaving normally despite queasiness. 

• Your vomiting is infrequent (maybe you throw up in the morning, but you’re all right after you eat something).

• You experience little (or no) weight loss during pregnancy.

• Nausea does not impact your ability to eat or drink.

• Your nausea comes and goes throughout the day.

• Your sickness decreases after the first trimester.

In contrast, pregnancy with HG looks more like this:

• You are not able to live your life normally due to nausea and vomiting.

• You have vomited to the point of dehydration. 

• You vomit bile or even blood.

• You have experienced weight loss during your pregnancy (anything over 5 pounds).

• The nausea lasts later into the pregnancy (sometimes through the entire pregnancy).

• IV fluids or medications are required to treat your vomiting and nausea.

If your checklist of symptoms looks more like the second list than the first, talk to your doctor. HG can be treated with medications and techniques; it can be easier than it is right now. And if you think you’re on the first list but it’s still hard to manage, that’s ok! Talk to your doctor anyway. HG or no HG, your comfort and health matter.