How to Help Her
Knowing how to help a woman with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) may be confusing. You have not likely experienced it before and don't really know what she is feeling, but obviously want to help since you are reading this site. Know that she is not making herself sick, nor can she control her vomiting/nausea. HG is a serious illness that has been largely misunderstood by health professionals because the cause of HG has not yet been identified, thus some wrongly assume it is psychological.
HG typically resolves by mid-pregnancy, however, it may last until delivery. The first 3-4 months are usually the worst for her. She will need the most help and support during this time. The first way you can help is to learn about HG. Reading our Mother's Survival Guide and other's stories are valuable tools for understanding what she feels.
If she has to lay down much of the day and/or cannot leave her house often, please also read our page on bed rest to see how this will affect her. Your support will greatly impact how well she copes with this illness.
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Updated on: Sep. 15, 2022