Health: Health Condition Lands Pregnant Kate the Duchess of Cambridge In Hospital
By Stephanie Stahl
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Prince William and his wife Kate are expecting their first child. The news was revealed today because Kate was taken to the hospital for a severe form of morning sickness. Doctors say the duchess's condition is rare, but treatable.
Doctors say Kate and the baby will probably be fine. She's essentially dehydrated from this severe form of morning sickness.
Most women who have this go on to have normal and healthy pregnancies.
It's a rare condition that one percent of pregnant women suffer with. It's called Hyperemesis Gravidarum.
"They have so much nausea and vomiting. They can't keep anything down, not even fluids, and they become dehydrated and sometimes need to be admitted for hydration.
Dr. Abigail Wolf, an Ob-Gyn at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, says the severe morning sickness usually happens in the first trimester.
The palace says Kate the Duchess of Cambridge is almost 12 weeks pregnant, and will remain hospitalized for a few days to be treated, that usually involves intravenous fluids, nutrients and anti-nausea medications.
Stahl asked, "Does this put the pregnancy at risk?"
Dr. Wolf replied, "Absolutely not. Some think it's a good sign that pregnancy hormones are active and a normal part of the process of early pregnancy."
Katie Lackritz is due in January with her second baby. She says she was constantly sick during her first trimester.
"When you're feeling so sick it makes you wonder is this supposed to happen. It's a scary challenging time," said Katie. She says once past her first trimester, she felt fine.
Doctors say the cause of morning sickness is the rapid increase of a hormone called HCG.
"It's pretty unusual for women to need to be hospitalized for this and the likelihood is she will go on to have a normal pregnancy," said Dr. Wolf.
"My heart goes out to her and I wish her the best," said Katie.
Doctors say the severe form of morning sickness can sometimes continue past the first trimester, but it can be treated with diet and medications, including things like vitamin B6 and ginger.
For information on Hyperemesis Gravidarum, visit http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001499.htm
