Association of pre-pregnancy anthropometric factors and mediterranean diet score with hyperemesis gravidarum: Results from a hospital-based case-control study

Abstract

Background

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is the most widespread reason for admission to the hospital during the first half of pregnancy. HG etiology is not clear in many cases. However, maternal body composition and pre-pregnancy diet are suggested as possible factors. This hospital-based case-control study aims to determine the link between the Mediterranean diet score (MDS) and pre-pregnancy anthropometric indicators with Hyperemesis gravidarum.

Methods

A total of 45 women with incident HG and 126 controls were entered into this case-control study between April 2020 and June 2021. A repeatable and accurate 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to define the MDS. The association between MDS and HG odds was examined through adjustment by possible confounders by the estimation of multivariate regression models.

Results

The median (interquartile range) pre-pregnancy body mass index of participants was 22.7 (21.7–25.9) and 22.9 (21.4–25) Kg/m² in cases and controls, respectively (P=0.284). The adjusted analyses found that the MDS was associated with a 25% reduced odds of HG (odds ratio (OR): 0.75, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): 0.24–0.91). Body mass index and waist circumference before pregnancy were not significantly associated with HG odds in both regression models.

Conclusions

The odds of HG during pregnancy are lower in women with a higher MDS before pregnancy. Also, a high intake of fruits and nuts, vegetables, legumes, and fish before pregnancy is liked with a lower HG odds.