Treatment for Nausea of Pregnancy

Abstract

Psychologic factors such as ambivalence in regard to motherhood and conflict over acceptance of the female biologic role may influence the occurrence or severity of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. An organic basis for these symptoms is suggested by the high chorionic gonadotropin levels, hypochlorhydria, and diminished gastric motility observed early in pregnancy. Therapeutic efforts are more likely to fail than to succeed if the objective is complete relief of symptoms. Attenuation is an acceptable “second-best” result. If a drug is used, phenobarbital is preferred.