Late vomiting of pregnancy

This code describes persistent or recurrent emesis occurring after the first trimester of pregnancy, typically beyond 12-14 weeks gestation. It signifies vomiting that extends beyond the usual period of morning sickness, potentially leading to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or weight loss. This condition is distinct from hyperemesis gravidarum, which is more severe and debilitating.

Use this code when documentation specifies vomiting in the second or third trimester of pregnancy that is not severe enough to be classified as hyperemesis gravidarum. Supporting documentation should indicate the gestational age at which the vomiting is occurring and rule out other causes of emesis. This code is appropriate for ongoing, bothersome vomiting late in pregnancy.

• Do not use this code for vomiting confined to the first trimester; consider O21.0 or O21.1 for those cases.
• Distinguish carefully from hyperemesis gravidarum (O21.0, O21.1) based on severity, dehydration, and weight loss.
• Always sequence this code after the primary obstetric code (e.g., O09.- for supervision of normal pregnancy).