Support for HG (Hyperemesis Gravidarum) during pregnancy
It’s pretty common to have lots of questions and worries during pregnancy, but women who have HG (hyperemesis gravidarum) during their pregnancy are often confronted with unique and intense concerns. While HG itself is relatively uncommon (2% of all pregnancies), anxiety and depression within cases of HG is very common, making this condition all the more difficult.
Women with HG have extreme nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. It can cause a weight loss of more than 5% of body weight. In addition to being an incredibly stressful experience, women with HG often have many worries about not just their condition, but the health of the baby. These worries can in turn trigger more worst-case-scenario thinking that challenges and consumes many women.
Do you feel like HG has robbed you of the pregnancy you envisioned? Many women naturally have daydreamed of what being pregnant will look and feel like. Or watching friends or family members through their pregnancy often starts to shape your expectations in ways you didn’t realize until your experience doesn’t match up with those you’ve observed.
Unfortunately, sometimes loved ones think the pregnant woman is being dramatic in her reports of how she’s feeling. When Princess Kate Middleton publicly shared her experience with HG, it seemed to increase public understanding of the reality of this condition. Helping your support network have an accurate understanding of your health is important to receive the support you need.
Counseling can help you grieve the loss of the pregnancy you hoped you would have, help you manage worries you have, and provide support during a challenging time by addressing your unique concerns. While the unpleasant complications of HG abate for many women before pregnancy is over, delivery itself can be a welcome relief from the physical realities of HG. However, make sure you tend to the emotional and mental aspect of HG, as well. And, if you’re feeling like you can’t find the energy for counseling, I offer teletherapy or distance sessions so you can have sessions in the comfort of your home.
