The Affects of Hyperemesis Gravidarum Interview Series (Part 1)

This series includes questions asked to 26 women mostly across the U.S., the answers chosen were based on the most variety of answers provided.

Diagnosing Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Before you got pregnant, did you have any complications, what did your life look like? (were you able to do things normally and healthy)

Before HG, I wasn't in perfect health - I've had fibromyalgia since high school and migraines for as long as I can remember. I also had a bad bout with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) about five years ago that had me vomiting three to four times every day (if I only knew then what I know now - that would be a good day for me this pregnancy!) I could function normally most days, and before I got pregnant I was feeling better than I had in years.~Alicia


Before I was pregnant I was an aspiring CNA. I was able to take care of four patients with special needs (which was a very hard job physically and mentally). I walked a lot and did 4 mile trails. Everything was easier because I had my health.-Jessie


My husband and I had decided a year, prior to trying to get pregnant, that we should be as healthy as possible. We spent 2012 getting in the best shape of our lives exercising daily both cardio and strength training, eating incredible healthy, doctors appointments, vitamins, and tests tests and more tests. Before getting pregnant not only were we healthier than ever but also sure to have no medical deficiencies. -katelyn


Before I fell pregnant I was a normal healthy girl, trips to the beach and the movies and just everyday activities were done with ease. - Tahlea



 Were you planning/excited to be a mom before finding out?

Yes, my husband and I planned our daughter and were shocked and excited since it only took us one month to conceive and I always wanted kids.- Mary

My pregnancy was a wish come true, 1st time trying after my wedding day & I was blessed to be carrying. - Kelly

My husband and I were married in August. We weren't totally ready for a baby, but decided to go off birth control because my doctor told me I would most likely have difficulty getting pregnant, and we would have to be trying for two years before insurance would pay for any fertility treatments. So we decided to try for the two years, then discuss whether we wanted to pursue fertility treatments, adoption or just not be parents.- Alicia

I was very excited to become a mom, due to our circumstances we actually waited a year longer than we wanted so it was long overdue -katelyn


How long did it take to diagnose that you had Hg and how did you feel about it?

I knew something was seriously wrong because I couldn't intake anything at all and was affecting my ability to do everyday task such as just brush my teeth. I called my ob and the nurse and they just said it's just your first trimester it will end soon, that happened all SIX TIMES! I finally went to the ER where I was diagnosed with Hg at about 9 or 10 weeks after my 2nd trip. I felt a relief like ok I'm glad there is a name to this and that someone actually is taking this serious and not stamping it as just "morning sickness". -Eva

4 weeks to be diagnosed with all 4 HG pregnancies, survived 4, mixed emotions as if weather I can do it or not, terminated 2 cause of HG. - Brandy

 First pregnancy: undiagnosed, 2nd pregnancy: about 3 months despite me losing 40lbs in 3 months, and being hospitalized due to dehydration, malnutrition, etc. I eventually lost that baby not long after being diagnosed. With my daughter we knew going in and started IV 's and medication immediately. I felt challenged with DD but I was determined to battle it out and win. After losing our last pregnancy after our daughter, I feel slightly helpless but still determined. I almost just quit and went with adoption but my husband is supportive through it all and I couldn't do it again without him. I'm also very glad there's protocol's in place to get me through the next one if my resolve can withstand the difficulties.- Mary