Risk Factors of Hyperemesis Gravidarum among Pregnant Women in Bale Zone Hospitals, Southeast Ethiopia: Unmatched Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Hyperemesis gravidarum is defined as severe nausea and repeated vomiting during pregnancy that prevents oral intake of food and leads to dehydration, ketonuria and weight loss. Even though the incidence of HG varies in different areas, approximately 0.5%-4.8% of pregnant women develops HG during their pregnancy. Early detection of HG risk factors could reduce maternal and fetal complications, healthcare and societal costs. Studies have investigated risk factors for HG outside Ethiopia, but the studies have reported conflicting results in terms of study design, lack of proper sample size and control group. Therefore, this study identified sociodemographic and clinical risk factors of HG among pregnant women in Bale zone hospitals, Southeast Ethiopia.