Amy Schumer shares video to show reality of hyperemesis gravidarum

Image credit: @amyschumer via Instagram

Earlier in the year, American actor and comedian Amy Schumer was diagnosed with severe pregnancy sickness, commonly known as hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). She was later hospitalised because of the condition.

This weekend, Amy posted an honest video on her Instagram about the realities of living with HG. Well into her second trimester, the short clip begins with Ms Schumer saying, “Hi I thought it might be fun to see me throwing up in a public bathroom”. And she goes on to go exactly that.

 

 

 

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A post shared by @amyschumer on Dec 8, 2018 at 7:34am PST

The caption read:

“Deep in my second trimester and all I can say is nope! Yesterday I did a show 90 minutes later #soblessed #godsmiracle #lepainbathroom”

The video had a mixed reaction, with many saying that it was too much and suggesting some things are best kept private. However, most of Amy Schumer’s fans expressed their support, sent her well wishes, and many mums with experience of HG thanked her for sharing how truly difficult pregnancy can be if you have the condition.

More information about hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)

Sickness and nausea are very common early pregnancy symptoms. Pregnancy sickness tends to ease off from the second trimester, but HG is much more severe and, unlike morning sickness, can continue throughout pregnancy.

Women who can’t keep any food or drink down, or are worried at all about pregnancy sickness, should see a midwife or doctor.

Treatment for HG

Treatment for HG will depend on its severity, but it could include medication that is safe to use in pregnancy, such as anti-sickness drugs (anti-emetics) or steroids. These can be given by injection to women who are unable to keep anything down. A vitamin B supplement may also be prescribed.

In extreme cases, some women may need to go into hospital for treatment. This will usually be for a few days, so doctors can assess the condition and work out the best way to manage it for mum and baby.

Constantly feeling nauseous or sick can understandably be emotionally draining, as well as physically. For this reason, treatment for HG may need to focus on mum’s mental wellbeing as well as reducing her physical symptoms.

Support for HG

• Pregnancy Sickness Support (PSS) is a charity dedicated to helping women cope with morning sickness and HG.
• Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) Support by HER Foundation have a private Facebook support group for women suffering from HG.

Read about Spewing Mummy's experience of HG and what helped her.