Nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, commonly referred to as morning sickness, are well-known phenomena, particularly in the first trimester. However, some women experience an extreme form of this condition known as hyperemesis gravidarum, which requires medical attention and, in severe cases, hospitalization. A recent study has identified a hormone called GDF15, released by growing fetuses in the uterus, as being associated with hyperemesis gravidarum.
This breakthrough discovery may offer a new approach to addressing hyperemesis gravidarum at its root cause rather than merely treating its symptoms. Tito Borner, a psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania, expressed the potential significance of this finding for women suffering from the condition worldwide. The study, published in the journal Nature, could pave the way for more effective treatments for hyperemesis gravidarum.
Stephen O’Rahilly, a metabolism researcher at Cambridge University and co-author of the study, highlighted the importance of having a clear understanding of what may cause hyperemesis gravidarum, offering a potential route for both treatment and prevention.
The research suggests that women who had elevated levels of the GDF15 hormone before pregnancy did not experience adverse reactions during gestation. However, the study also acknowledges that while GDF15 may be a significant factor in extreme sickness, other factors could contribute to the condition.
Morning sickness is a common experience, affecting about 70% of pregnant women. In contrast, hyperemesis gravidarum is observed in a smaller percentage, ranging from 0.3 to 2%. This severe form of the condition can pose challenges to affected women, making it difficult for them to consume food and water and hindering their ability to carry out everyday activities. The study offers new insights into the potential causes of hyperemesis gravidarum, opening avenues for further research and the development of targeted treatments.
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