Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) in Pregnancy

Beyond the Bump
Jun 12, 2023
3 min read

Updated: May 25

Pregnancy is often painted as a glowing, joyful time. But for those who experience Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), it can be anything but.

This isn’t just morning sickness. HG is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that causes relentless nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, weight loss, and hospitalisation—and for many, it deeply affects mental health too.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum: What It Really Feels Like

If you've never experienced HG, it can be hard to understand just how debilitating it is. This isn’t just feeling queasy in the mornings.

HG can mean:

Being sick dozens of times a day
Struggling to keep down even water
Needing IV fluids or feeding tubes
Feeling trapped and isolated in your own body
Becoming so physically and emotionally exhausted, you may begin to feel hopeless—or worse, suicidal

Let’s be really clear here: HG can be traumatic. And it deserves serious support and understanding.

Not Just in Your Head: What the Research Says

For years, people experiencing HG were told to just eat a ginger biscuit, or that it was part of being pregnant. But recent research has finally identified a biological cause for HG—offering validation and hope for better treatments.

In 2023, scientists discovered that HG may be linked to elevated levels of a hormone called GDF15, which affects the brain’s nausea response. This finding has opened up the potential for more targeted medications and better understanding in the future. You can read more here.

This condition is real, serious and not your fault.

Support Is Out There

If you're going through HG, please don’t suffer in silence. There is help available, and you deserve support.

Here are UK-based organisations that can support you:

Pregnancy Sickness Support (PSS) – https://www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk Offers helplines, peer support, medical information, and resources for both you and your healthcare team.

Tommy’s – https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/pregnancy-complications/hyperemesis-gravidarumTrusted pregnancy charity providing information and advocacy.

If you’re struggling with your mental health due to HG, you’re not alone. Please reach out to:

Your GP or Midwife – Ask for a referral to perinatal mental health support.

PANDAS Foundation – https://www.pandasfoundation.org.ukProvides mental health support during and after pregnancy.

Samaritans (UK) – 116 123 (free 24/7 support line)

You Deserve Compassion, Not Dismissal

At Beyond the Bump, we hear all too often how people with HG are dismissed or made to feel like they’re exaggerating. We want to say this loud and clear: we believe you.

Vicky has personally experienced HG in all 3 of her pregnancies and has written about her journey in more detail in this blog post. She knows just how consuming it can be. HG can strip away the joy of pregnancy, but you're still doing an incredible job—even if it doesn’t feel like it.

How We Can Support You

We know that pregnancy with HG can feel incredibly isolating. Our Birth Debrief service is available if you’d like a safe, compassionate space to talk about your experience—even during pregnancy. It’s an hour with someone who will listen without judgement and help you feel seen.

For most women suffering with HG, leaving the comfort of your bed to attend an in-person antenatal class is just too much, that's where The Birth & Baby Academy comes in, with 9 hours worth of content this is our multi-award winning Antenatal Course online, our videos are short and easy to consume, close your eyes and absorb the best birth prep - don't let how you're feeling now impact your birthing experience.

If you're in Warwickshire & up for it, you’re also welcome in our antenatal classes if and when you’re ready. They’re inclusive, understanding, and held in a calm and supportive space that honours the reality of all pregnancy experiences—including the really tough ones.