Parenthood transforms with joy, challenges, and unexpected twists. When HG enters the picture, it adds an extra complexity for both moms and their partners. Coping with severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy requires a thoughtful and supportive approach. Explore valuable tips for those parenting with HG.
Prioritize Self-Care:
Recognize that parenting with HG makes self-care a necessity, not a luxury. Listen to your body and rest when needed, which may mean bedrest for weeks to months, especially in early pregnancy. Time off work (disability) and home responsibilities is often required. Your top priority is trying to increase food and fluids. Understand that being active uses up the few calories you take in each day and may increase dehydration, both of which worsen symptoms. Accept help from others, whether it’s a partner, family member, or friend. Crucial components of self-care for managing HG include rest, focusing on eating and drinking whatever you tolerate, and ensuring adequate sleep (which may require medication). It’s often difficult for partners to manage caregiving and other responsibilities, so encourage them to take breaks and ask for help.
Communicate Openly:
Openly communicate with your partner about your feelings while dealing with HG. Discuss your needs and be clear about what support looks like for you. They may have fears or frustrations that are best shared with a friend to avoid increasing your stress. Open and honest communication fosters understanding and can strengthen your relationship during this challenging time.
Seek Professional Support:
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help during this time. Consult with your healthcare provider regularly, share your symptoms, and discuss possible treatment options. HG can take a toll on mental health for both moms and partners, so consider talking to a therapist who specializes in pregnancy complications (perinatal trauma or mood disorders). Telehealth appointments may be an option.
Create a Support System:
Build a support system around you by sharing your experience with friends and family members. Use resources from the HER Foundation website’s Family & Friends section to help others understand and find ways to be supportive. If you do not have a partner during this time, seek out trusted friends or family members. A network of people offering practical assistance and emotional support is invaluable. Ask older children to help out with some things. Ask coaches or other parents to help get your children to their sporting events. Research finds that mothers and babies do better when there is much needed support.
Set Realistic Expectations:
Try to accept that some aspects of your life will need to be adjusted temporarily, and sometimes just about everything will change for a while, which is very hard. Set realistic expectations for yourself, your partner, and your family. There is rarely anything ideal or typical during a pregnancy with HG. You are creating a baby and that is hard work. Expect unexpected changes in routines and responsibilities to accommodate your health.
View HER HG Support Groups
Postpartum Support International for Maternal Mental Health Services.
Keep Supplies Stocked:
Keep supplies, safe foods/drinks, and medications in stock at your house. Remember these may change frequently in the first trimester especially. Set auto-reminders or automate deliveries for your family needs as well. Keep a basket with all of your essential needs in rooms where you spend the most time. Having extra emesis or Ziploc bags or buckets stashed around the house (and car) is very handy, especially in a one-bathroom or multi-level home.
Remember – HG will end.
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