Accessing Support When You Have Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a severe form of morning sickness that affects a small percentage of pregnant women. It can be debilitating and have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life during pregnancy. In New Zealand, there are various support options available for women suffering from this condition. While the support available is limited, we hope to see this list grow, and we would love any recommendations you may have – please reach out to us here, we would love to hear from you.

Firstly, we recommend speaking with your GP, Lead Maternity Support Carer (LMC), or Obstetrician. They can recommend medication and medical care to best support your needs. Different regions across New Zealand will offer outpatient or emergency care solutions for women needing IV fluids or additional treatment, please ensure you reach out, and continue to advocate for your needs.

The Society of Obstetric Medicine of Australia and New Zealand (SOMANZ) has produced the Guideline for the Management of Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy and Hyperemesis Gravidarum, a resource of recommendations reflective of current medical literature and clinical experience for the treatment of Hyperemesis Gravidarum. Albeit out-of-date, this guideline can still be useful to point practitioners to if needed. The Auckland District Healthboard Patient Care Pathway is another resource that might be worth familiarising yourself with if you are struggling to find adequate support.

Support Groups:
Our previous blog post on Navigating Hyperemesis Gravidarum touched on a few places you can find support groups in New Zealand. One of the most frequented groups is the Hyperemesis Support NZ Facebook group. This group of supportive women (and sometimes men), offer advice on topics such as medication schedules, food and drink recommendations and constipation. No topic is off limits, and there is always a kind listening ear at the end of your post. Remember, you can also speak anonymously in these groups if needed. There is also Hyperemesis Awareness Aotearoa on Instagram with an impressive collection of expert interviews on Hyperemesis Gravidarum.

Mental Support:
Hyperemesis Gravidarum can cause serious mental health challenges. If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out to your GP or LMC. Additionally, you can call Healthline any day or time for free on 0800 611 116. Furthermore, there are also options at PADA and Healthify.

How can loved ones help?
It's essential for the loved ones of women with Hyperemesis Gravidarum to offer understanding, patience, and practical support. Simple gestures like helping with household chores, preparing meals, and providing emotional support can make a significant difference in easing the burden on the woman suffering from this condition. Have someone advocate for your needs and the seriousness of your condition can be beneficial during medical appointments. It is important to communicate your needs to your loved ones and remember that it's okay to ask for help.

Women with Hyperemesis Gravidarum in New Zealand have access to a range of support services, both in-person and online, to help them navigate this challenging time in their pregnancy. Whilst it is sad that we so often hear of women having to actively advocate for themselves, we believe that with help from healthcare professionals, joining support groups, utilising online resources, and receiving support from loved ones, women can better manage their symptoms and feel less isolated during this difficult period.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.