Genetic links to extreme morning sickness

Pregnant women whose own mothers suffered from an extreme form of morning sickness are three times likely to suffer the same condition.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a severe form of morning sickness occurring before the 22 week of pregnancy and in two per cent of women.

It is responsible for being the most common reason women are admitted to hospital in early pregnancy.

Women suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum are more likely to have a premature or low birth weight baby.

Now the condition could indicate a genetic link between mothers and daughters according to new research published on the BMJ website today.

The research led by Ase Vikanes, from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, says: “a better understanding of the psychological consequences of experiencing severe nausea and vomiting could be helpful for clinicians who treat and counsel women with hyperemesis gravidarum.”