What is HG? HG is hyperemesis gravidarum, a debilitating and potentially life-threatening pregnancy disease that affects millions globally. HG may cause weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration, and debility due to severe nausea and/or vomiting, and may increase the risk of other serious pregnancy complications and cause long-term health issues for mother and baby(ies). Hyperemesis gravidarum does not look the same for every patient and severity varies.
| Levels of Severity |
Severe HG
- Without treatment, the life of mother and baby are at risk
- Symptoms are often difficult to control with medications
- Requires fluids, medications, and sometimes nutrition for months
- Malnutrition, dehydration, and muscle atrophy cause exhaustion
- Weight loss may be 10% or more (less with early treatment)
- Delivery may be complicated and difficult due to weakness
- Recovery often takes several months or more
- Signs of trauma and changes in family planning are common
Patients with severe HG are unable to function and constantly sick.
Moderate HG
- May continue beyond mid-pregnancy but severity lessens
- Weight loss is <10% (usually less with early treatment)
- Requires medications, and sometimes fluids and/or nutrition therapy
- Recovery may take several months
- Signs of trauma and changes in family planning may occur
Patients with moderatre HG struggle to function and are very miserable.
Mild HG
- Usually ends by mid-pregnancy
- Weight loss is less than 5%
- Benefits from medications and sometimes IV fluids
- Recovery may take a few months or more
Patients with mild HG are can somewhat function but are miserable.
Resources for Treatment and Support
GET INVOLVED
- Participate in HG research.
- Become an advocate.
- Make a gift to the HER Foundation.
- Share your story and support other HG moms.
- Become a HER Foundation volunteer.
- Blog about HG and show support for HER.
- Share resources with local health professionals and hospitals.
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