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March 5, 2022

What is HG?

Aijia Grammer in hospital bed for treatment
Aijia Grammer, HER Foundation Ambassador, during HG

What is HG? HG is hyperemesis gravidarum, a debilitating and potentially life-threatening pregnancy disease that affects millions of women 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). HG does not look the same for every patient.

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

HELP Score (HG severity score)
HG Care App
Treatment Algorithm
Patient Brochure
Donate to Improve Care for HG Patients

GET INVOLVED

  • Participate in HG research.
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  • 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.

©2021 HER Foundation. All rights reserved.

Posted in News, What is HG
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