What Is Hyperemesis Gravidaum? Learn About the Condition Behind Duchess Kate’s Morning Sickness

When the news broke from Kensington Palace that the Royal Family would soon become a party of five, the announcement, unfortunately, included that the Duchess of Cambridge is once again battling Hyperemesis Gravidarum. While many moms-to-be suffer from morning sickness during those early weeks of pregnancy, Hyperemesis Gravidarum can last the entire pregnancy and can land pregnant women in the hospital.

Kate has dealt with Hyperemesis Gravidarum during her previous pregnancies with Prince George and Princess Charlotte, and because of this condition, Kate won't be making the rounds at upcoming royal events. "Her Royal Highness will no longer carry out her planned engagement at the Hornsey Road Children's Centre in London today," the palace statement said.

So what exactly is Hyperemesis Gravidarum and how is it different from traditional morning sickness? According to the American Pregnancy Association, "Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a condition characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and electrolyte disturbance." While resting and eating small meals can often ease the symptoms of morning sickness, Hyperemesis Gravidarum is different because more severe cases often require a stay in the hospital where the mom-to-be will receive fluid and nutrition through an IV.

Often if a mother has Hyperemesis Gravidarum with her first pregnancy, she will have the symptoms for all of her pregnancies. While doctors aren't sure what exactly causes morning sickness in pregnant women, it is believed to be caused by rising hormone levels. At the end of the first trimester, hormone levels begin to level off and usually pregnant women begin to feel relief from morning sickness symptoms.

Kate is being cared for at the royal couple's apartment in London's Kensington Palace, and while no due date has been announced, many speculate there will be a spring baby for the Royal Couple. So until there is another announcement about the baby, we hope Kate feels better soon and we'll have fun suggesting royal baby names for the new bundle of joy.

We can't wait to meet the newest member of the Royal family and we also can't wait to meet Jer & Auj's baby, due any minute!