I started with HG very early into the pregnancy – at about 3 weeks. I was tired, had no energy, and wondered if it was long COVID. My favourite food started to make me feel sick, and then the vomiting started… the day before my hen party.
I managed to make it through the party, but that night was my first trip to hospital. I would go in a further 14 times.
I was admitted 10 times to one hospital – who in the end informed me that I was being dramatic. They told me a taxi had been ordered to take me home and that I needed to breathe it through and stop being over the top. That deep down, I probably wanted the attention.
This hospital admitted me right away and put me on Xonvea, which worked. Their care was outstanding – and I truly believe that if we hadn’t gone to Stepping Hill Hospital, George and I would not be here today.
I wanted two children, but I know I cannot risk that again. I can’t afford to let HG try and take me again.
I also now have Fibromyalgia, which I didn’t have before.
The denial from the original hospital, their lack of care, and being told I wanted to be sick and to “breathe it through” will forever haunt me.
I contacted PSS a few times in my pregnancy, but I just didn’t have the energy to talk or text. I did contact them for counselling – and I have to say, talking to someone who completely understood what I went through made such a difference. It was also an added bonus to have a conversation with someone who wouldn’t end it with: “But George can’t be on his own, he needs a brother or sister!”
I want to thank you for all your support. I miss my conversations with my counsellor.
Thank you to Rachel for sharing her story with us and demonstrating how it just takes one person or hospital to make a difference.
Please note: PSS are not aware of any evidence-based research that has found a link between HG and fibromyalgia.
If you are able to donate to our small but mighty charity so we can help more people like Rachel, you can do so here.