What does an HG (Hyperemesis Gravidarum) doula do?
If you’re reading this, and know first hand what Hyperemesis Gravidarum is, I’m sorry. But this post, is for you.
HG Doula in Surrey
When you’re in the depths of HG, merely lifting your head off the pillow can be enough to trigger another wave of sickness. The very idea of combing your hair, making your older child lunch or brushing your teeth can be too much to mange; let alone advocating for decent medical treatment for your condition. You want to lay in that bed, ideally asleep, until this awful, debilitating illness goes away for good. I know, I’ve been there.
Doula support for birth and postpartum is becoming more widespread, and certainly better known about; but what if your darkest struggles aren’t birth or a new baby, but now. Pregnant and suffering a hell I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Where’s the support for you?
Having suffered myself with severe HG twice, and 5 years volunteering for the charity Pregnancy Sickness Support, it made perfect sense for me to combine the care I offer to families as a doula, with the depth of understanding I bring to this difficult time of pregnancy, as so was born the (only, as far as I’m aware) HG Doula support!
They say HG is one of those things no one can truly understand, unless they’ve been there. And believe me, I get it. There is no thought in your head too dark to surprise me. No detail of bodily functions too gross that I’d be shocked. No gaslighting or poor treatment story I haven’t heard before. I am here to look after you.
So what does an HG Doula session involve?
Ultimately, whatever you need it do, depending on your family circumstances, medical picture and household needs. HG Doula support doesn’t replace medical care, but might involve:
Emotional support, someone for you to say the difficult thoughts circling your head, that you haven’t even been able to say aloud to your partner yet.
Information. I can share with you what treatment options may be available from your GP or maternity team, so you feel more confident asking for what you need. I can support you to write this down, making it easier to communicate in hospital when you’re struggling.
Advocacy support, someone to attend appointments with you and push for appropriate treatment, when you’re in a place unable to take a deep breath without feeling sick, let alone ask for what you need without crying.
Practical self care. There’s a nest in your hair, let me gently comb it free, pop in a french plait, so it’s comfortably out of your way and wont get knotted so quickly again. The next session I’ll run you a cool bath, no bubbles, so you can sit and slowly wash your body after a week without a shower. I’ll change your bed sheets, so you’ve somewhere comfortable to climb back in to. Just one little step every few days is probably all you can manage, that’s more than ok!
Family household support. All doors closed, no smells allowed, I’ll pop together some easy lunch boxes or frozen meals for your other children or family whilst you rest. I’ll pop the kids’ laundry on, empty the dishwasher, whatever’s needed to keep the house functioning whilst you’re unable to move and your partner’s left juggling work and life alone. Toddler and big kid help welcome!
Whatever it takes to remove the added layer of stress and worry that comes from dropping all the balls, when you’re seriously unwell. Let them drop, I’m there to catch them.
Yes please *sob*, how do I book?
I am available for HG Doula Support in Surrey and SW London.
I understand that talking on the phone can be difficult when you’re battling HG. Or perhaps you’re reading this as a partner, desperate to help in any way you can. If you want to chat about how I can support your growing family, drop me an email info@birth-ed.co.uk and I’ll get back to you right away!