Hyperemesis gravidarum: Expectant mums tell of severe pregnancy sickness

Hyperemesis gravidarum: Expectant mums tell of severe pregnancy sickness

The text you shared appears to be from a BBC article recounting the experiences of women suffering from Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a severe form of pregnancy sickness. Here’s a summary of key points and stories mentioned:

### Overview
– HG is a severe condition beyond typical morning sickness, causing extreme nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.
– The article focuses on individual stories of women affected by HG, highlighting the severity of symptoms, treatment difficulties, and emotional impact.
– A medication known as **Xonvea**, which helped some women, is not universally accessible, with treatment varying by location.

### Beth Parsons
– Experienced serious HG symptoms from approximately week 5 to week 17.
– Found a helpful medication (Xonvea), which significantly improved her condition.
– By week 26 of pregnancy, she had not been seriously sick since week 17.
– Noted varied access to support and medication for other women.

### Sarah Goddard
– From North Yorkshire, second pregnancy August 2024, worsened HG compared to first pregnancy.
– Was vomiting 15-20 times a day, sometimes with blood.
– Hospitalized thrice but symptoms recurred after discharge.
– Ultimately decided on termination at 10 weeks due to severity.
– Received grief counseling and mental health support.
– Later found supportive consultant, got access to medication and is now 31 weeks pregnant with a second child in 2026.

### Millie Fitzsimons
– Experienced HG throughout pregnancy; hospitalized about 16 times.
– Lost around 3 stone in weight; vomiting up to 40 times a day.
– Felt medical staff were often dismissive.
– Found accessing Xonvea difficult; medical staff initially unaware of it.
– Waited 4 months to get access, could only get one week’s supply at a time.
– Upon moving location, could access medication.
– Off work for 8 months.
– Does not plan to have another child.
– Charity is campaigning to have Xonvea included on all drug formularies to improve access.

### General Notes
– NHS states about 80% of women experience morning sickness, but HG is much more severe.
– There is a discrepancy in treatment and support between regions.
– The charity Pregnancy Sickness Support plays a key role in advocacy and support.

If you want, I can help you find more information about HG, available treatments, or support organizations. Would you like that?

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More