Research on HG's short- and long-term effects is desperately needed and needed now. We need to do more to find a cure for this disease that has such devastating effects on a growing number of soon-to-be mothers.

Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA)

HG forces women to make difficult decisions... the H.E.R. web site is the most comprehensive location to educate oneself to make the best decisions.

Marlena S. Fejzo, PhD USA

HG is a devastating illness and yet so little research has been undertaken into causes and therapies.

Dr. Matthes Seeling, MD

HG is a tremendously debilitating disease that can have life-long consequences. This Web site will provide much needed support to mothers suffering from this disease.

TM Goodwin, MD USA

HG has a devastating personal and family impact and effective management is most important.

Ron Taylor, MD UK

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Home | For Family & Friends | Hospitalization

Hospitalization Guide

The following procedures and equipment are typical during a hospital stay:

Taking Vital Signs:
These include her temperature, blood pressure, pulse (counting her heartbeats), and respirations (counting her breaths). A stethoscope is used to listen to her heart and lungs. Her blood pressure is taken by wrapping a cuff around her arm.
IV:
A tube placed in her vein for giving medicine or fluids. It will be capped or have tubing connected to it.
ECG:
Also called a heart monitor, an electrocardiograph (e-lec-tro-CAR-dee-o-graf), or EKG. The patches on her chest are hooked up to a TV-type screen or a small portable box (telemetry unit). This screen shows a tracing of each heartbeat. Her heart will be watched for signs of injury or damage resulting from her illness.
Blood:
Usually taken from a vein in her hand or from the bend in her elbow. Tests will be done on her blood.
Medicines:
She may get medicines by shot, in her IV, or in her rectum as a suppository.
Monitoring the Baby's Heartbeat:
If it is late in her pregnancy, she will have a loose-fitting belt strapped around her abdomen. The belt secures a patch which is attached to a machine with a TV-type screen. This screen shows a tracing of the baby's heartbeat.

The baby's heartbeat may be monitored all the time during the early part of her hospital stay. As she improves, a tracing may be taken several times a day.
Urine Tests:
She will be asked to urinate in a container. Hospital personnel will measure and test her urine to make sure she are getting enough liquids. Do not throw away her urine unless her nurses have given the okay.
Other Tests:
She may have tests of her liver, kidney, pancreas, and bowels to find reasons for the vomiting.
Weight:
She will be weighed daily to see if there have been any changes.
Food:
Until her vomiting stops, she may not be given any meals. Instead, she will receive food and vitamins through her IV. She can slowly begin to drink and eat small amounts of food when her vomiting has stopped.
Emotions:
It is very important that she relax and avoid stress. Talking to her doctor or someone close to her may be helpful.

Updated on: Mar. 24, 2010

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