PSYCHIATRIC ASPECTS OF HYPEREMESIS GRAVIDARUM

Hyperemesis gravidarum is a potentially dangerous disorder of pregnanc y characterized by severe and protracted vomiting. It is suggested tha t psychosocial factors may have a role in determining whether the preg nant woman experiences a transient spell of mild vomiting or progresse s towards the much rarer but more significant pernicious vomiting. Psy chotherapy, hypnotherapy and behavior therapy have been reported to co ntribute to the treatment of patients with hyperemesis gravidarum. A r eview of the etiological factors as well as of the therapeutic approac hes is presented.