Ep. 314: Beyond Morning Sickness: Understanding Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Learning to Advocate for Yourself with listener, Anna Cosentino

Join HeHe and guest Anna Cosentino in this eye-opening episode where Anna bravely shares her harrowing experience with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) during her pregnancy. Despite a history of endometriosis and POTS, Anna initially had a symptomless pregnancy, only to be struck by severe vomiting and nausea at five and a half weeks. She details her struggles with medical providers who dismissed her symptoms, her battle to get life-saving IV fluids, and her fight for appropriate care. Topics covered include the importance of advocating for oneself in the healthcare system, the role of community and support, and practical advice for others facing similar challenges. Anna also discusses her post-pregnancy journey and the lasting effects of HG. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with HG or severe morning sickness during pregnancy.

Understanding HG and Its Impact

Personal Pregnancy Journey Begins

Challenges with Healthcare Providers

Severe Symptoms and Seeking Help

Postpartum Reflections and Advice

Advocating for Yourself

Resources and Support for HG

Guest Bio:

Anna is 25 years old and just had her first child, a little girl! She works full time at a church in the Atlanta area working in music and production with middle and high school students. Anna developed HG at 5 weeks of pregnancy and proceeded to throw up 5-15x a day for the remainder of my pregnancy until she delivered.

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LINKS MENTIONED:

Find more resources from HER foundation: https://www.hyperemesis.org/

A Screening Tool: https://www.hyperemesis.org/tools/help-score/

2023 article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532917/

ACOG: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/morning-sickness-nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy

ACOG Practice Bulletin 189: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2018/01/nausea-and-vomiting-of-pregnancy