Recent research from the University of Turku in Finland has uncovered a significant link between hyperemesis gravidarum—a severe form of nausea during pregnancy—and depression. The study reveals that women experiencing this extreme nausea are at a heightened risk of developing depression both prior to and following their pregnancies.
Hyperemesis gravidarum affects between 0.3% and 3.6% of all pregnancies and is a leading cause of hospitalization during the first trimester. It is characterized by intense nausea and vomiting, which can severely disrupt a woman’s ability to eat and drink normally, leading to challenging daily life. Despite its physical toll, the psychological impact has not been thoroughly explored until now.
The research, part of a larger study dubbed LopuJo led by Professor Päivi Polo, analyzed data from over 437,000 Finnish women between 2004 and 2017. The findings indicate that 8.8% of women suffering from severe nausea during pregnancy had a history of depression before conceiving, compared to 1.0% in the control group. This statistic shows that these women are more than five times more likely to have experienced depression prior to pregnancy.
Moreover, the study found that women with hyperemesis gravidarum are approximately 3.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with new-onset depression after childbirth. Specifically, 4.9% of this group were diagnosed with depression following delivery, versus 1.0% in the control group. Notably, depression was diagnosed earlier in women who had severe nausea, occurring on average 3.3 years after giving birth compared to 4.5 years for those without severe nausea.
The research suggests potential shared biological mechanisms between severe nausea and depression. Dr. Eeva Terävä-Utti, a doctoral researcher involved in the study, emphasized the importance of recognizing the mental health risks associated with hyperemesis gravidarum. “Our research shows that severe nausea in pregnancy is not only a physically stressful condition but also a significant mental health risk factor,” she stated.
These findings underscore the necessity of systematic psychiatric screening during and after pregnancy, advocating for a multidisciplinary approach to maternal care. Dr. Terävä-Utti highlighted the need for improved collaboration among psychiatry, gynecology, and primary care providers. “Our aim is also to raise awareness and improve access to support for these patients,” she added.
The study was published in The Lancet Psychiatry, marking a significant contribution to the understanding of the interplay between physical and mental health during pregnancy. As awareness grows, the healthcare community may be better equipped to address the needs of women facing these challenges.
