A survey-based study has found possible benefits of a common medication in reducing the risk of severe morning sickness. (Image credit: Scott Olson via Getty Images)
Initial results suggest that metformin, often used to treat diabetes, may significantly reduce the likelihood of severe morning sickness that affects thousands of women each year during pregnancy.
This dangerous form of morning sickness, known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), can cause complications during pregnancy, including weight loss, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances, as well as long-term health problems for both mother and baby. What’s more, women who experience HG during their first pregnancy often experience it again in subsequent pregnancies.
Previous research has shown that people with a genetic predisposition to hyperemesis gravidarum often have low levels of a hormone known as growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) before pregnancy. During pregnancy, the placenta produces GDF15, which helps the fetus survive and thrive. One theory is that low levels of GDF15 before pregnancy make women more susceptible to the sudden increase in the hormone during pregnancy, which leads to severe nausea and vomiting.
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Sourse: www.livescience.com
