Afshan Azad is a British actress and public figure best known for her role as Padma Patil in the Harry Potter film series. Beyond her career in entertainment, Afshan is also a proud mother of two girls — and is now stepping into a new role as Ambassador for the charity Pregnancy Sickness Support (PSS).
Having experienced the debilitating effects of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) during both of her pregnancies, Afshan is passionate about raising awareness of this often misunderstood and underestimated condition. Her experience of HG — marked by relentless nausea, vomiting, and exhaustion — brought home the physical, mental, and emotional toll that pregnancy sickness can take.
“Pregnancy should be a time of joy, but for many women like me, HG turns it into survival mode,” Afshan says. “I want to help other women feel seen, heard, and supported — and to make sure they know they’re not alone.”
Afshan joins Pregnancy Sickness Support at a pivotal time. Demand for the charity’s services has never been higher, and the voices of those with lived experience are central to pushing for change in the way HG is recognised and treated. As Ambassador, Afshan will use her platform to share her story, support others through their journey, and help challenge the stigma and misinformation that still surrounds the condition.
Charlotte Howden, CEO of Pregnancy Sickness Support, said:
“Afshan’s courage in speaking out about her experiences sends a powerful message to those currently suffering from HG. Her advocacy will help us raise vital awareness, challenge the dismissal many women still face, and reach even more people in need of support. We’re proud to have her join us as an ambassador and champion this cause.”
Through her work with PSS, Afshan hopes to break the silence around HG and bring greater understanding, compassion, and action to this life-altering condition.
What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)?
Hyperemesis gravidarum is not just “bad morning sickness” — it is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of pregnancy sickness that causes extreme nausea, vomiting, weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition. It affects around 1–3% of pregnancies and can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby if not properly treated. Unlike typical nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP), which often eases after the first trimester, HG can persist for many months and leave sufferers bedridden and isolated.
About Pregnancy Sickness Support
Pregnancy Sickness Support is the only UK charity dedicated to supporting those affected by nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and hyperemesis gravidarum. Established in 2002, the charity provides free, evidence-based information, a national helpline, one-to-one peer support, and a specialist counselling service for those struggling with the physical and emotional impact of HG.
PSS also delivers training for healthcare professionals to improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of HG in line with the latest guidelines.
Through support, education, and advocacy, the charity is working to ensure that no one faces HG alone and that all sufferers receive the care and compassion they deserve.
For media enquiries or further information, please contact:
marketing@pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk or call 07880 239565.
Afshan Azad – Biography
Afshan Azad, 36, is a British actress and public figure from Manchester, best known for her role as Padma Patil in the Harry Potter film series. A proud mum of two, Afshan continues to connect with fans around the world through her work, public appearances, and social media presence.
For media enquiries or further information, please contact: afshanazadinfo@gmail.com
