An estimated 1 million pregnant people suffer from a serious pregnancy disease each year that is absolutely horrendous. Some babies (and pregnant people) are lost in extreme cases due to severe malnutrition and dehydration from almost nausea and vomiting. This is NOT your average morning sickness associated with pregnancy. That type of sickness often subsides soon after the first trimester ends. Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) however, lasts for the entire pregnancy.

HG: HYPEREMESIS GRAVIDARUM

HYPER = EXCESSIVE

EMESIS = VOMITING

GRAVIDARUM = IN PREGNANCY

Unfortunately, HG is still pretty misunderstood in some circles therefore pregnant people aren’t being properly diagnosed or treated. In the past, HG was thought to be something psychological that a person chose to experience, but we now know that that idea is ludicrous. WHO would choose this?

Those diagnosed with HG have an increased risk of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)… and understandably so! Loved ones need to be aware of the symptoms of these conditions to make sure that the pregnant person gets the care they need.

Amy Schumer is one of my favorites in showbiz. I really appreciated her transparency throughout her pregnancy with her son and I think the HG community has come a long way because of her advocacy. Watch this two-minute video for just a glimpse at her misery and learn some dates about this awful condition.