Research on HG's short- and long-term effects is desperately needed and needed now. We need to do more to find a cure for this disease that has such devastating effects on a growing number of soon-to-be mothers.

Congressman Xavier Becerra (CA)

HG forces women to make difficult decisions... the H.E.R. web site is the most comprehensice location to educatte oneself to make the best decisions.

Marlena S. Fejzo, PhD USA

HG is a devastating illness and yet so little research has been undertaken into causes and therapies.

Dr. Matthes Seeling, MD

HG is a termendously debilitating disease that can have life long consequences. This Web site will provide much needed support to mothers suffering from this disease.

TM Goodwin, MD USA

HG has a devastating personal and family impact and effective management is most important.

Ron Taylor, MD UK

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Home | For Family & Friends | How To Help | Overview

How to Help Her

Knowing how to help a woman with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) may be confusing. You have not likely experienced it before and don't really know what she is feeling, but obviously want to help since you are reading this site. Know that she is not making herself sick, nor can she control her vomiting/nausea. HG is a serious illness that has been largely misunderstood by health professionals because the cause of HG has not yet been identified, thus some wrongly assume it is psychological.

HG typically resolves by mid-pregnancy, however, it may last until delivery. The first 3-4 months are usually the worst for her. She will need the most help and support during this time. The first way you can help is to learn about HG. Reading our Mother's Survival Guide and other's stories are valuable tools for understanding what she feels.

If she has to lay down much of the day and/or cannot leave her house often, please also read our page on bed rest to see how this will affect her. Your support will greatly impact how well she copes with this illness.

Updated on: Jul. 19, 2010