An Alternative Approach to Hyperemesis Gravidarum
*Possible triggers*
"It's just morning sickness, it will go away. Everyone gets it". (insert eye roll emoji). Except its not "just morning sickness" and its not going away. Its a constant feeling of nausea and vomiting and there aren't enough ginger chews in the world that will take the awful, gut wrenching feeling away. You feel like you want to lay in bed and never get up. It's looking in the mirror with watery eyes, a red face, and a runny nose and wondering how you will make it for the rest of the day. It's the stress from missing so much work and at risk of losing your job. It's feeling alone, because no one understands, isolated from activities and social gatherings. It's wondering day and night if your baby is getting enough nutrients because you can't hold down a cracker. For some, it's contemplating abortion because its an unbearable agony that has no end in sight. Then comes the guilt and the shame. The feeling of defeat is overwhelming.
Hyperemesis Gravidarum also known as HG (Hyper - meaning "excessive", emesis - meaning "vomiting", and gravidarum - meaning "pregnant woman") is a condition characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and electrolyte disturbance. Mild cases are treated with dietary changes, rest, and antacids. More severe cases often require a stay in the hospital so that the mother can receive fluid and nutrition through an intravenous line (IV). It is believed to be caused by a rapidly rising blood level of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), but the exact cause is unknown.
Signs and symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum:
Severe nausea and vomiting
Food aversions
Weight loss of 5% or more of pre-pregnancy weight
Decrease in urination
Dehydration
Headaches
Confusion
Fainting
Jaundice
Extreme fatigue
Low blood pressure
Rapid heart rate
Loss of skin elasticity
Secondary anxiety/depression
(Info retrieved from americanpregnancy.org)
Hypnosis for Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)
Many observers believe that there's a strong psychological basis for all Hyperemesis Gravidarum cases. As a Sexual Wellness Hypnotherapist, I receive a high number of pregnant women looking for some relief from their constant nausea and vomiting. From my experience, clients that have worked with me have beliefs and fears that are causing them to feel nauseous. Once we re-frame those beliefs, remove fears and doubts, increase confidence, and create anchors that will influence a positive and relaxed state of mind, my clients cease vomiting and feel more energized. They notice improvement even after one session.
A very common belief that needs re-framed is that being nauseous and vomiting means that your baby is healthy. This is re-affirmed every time someone tells you "don't worry, that just means your baby is healthy".
Other concerns you are able to address during hypnosis:
Fear of child birth
Fear of pain
What if I'm not good enough/ a terrible mom?
Self doubt
Financial Worries
Ending up like your parents
Fear that your child won't like you
Time management
Lack of knowledge
In a study of 138 hyperemesis gravidarum patients who were completely recalcitrant to conservative medical treatment, 88 percent stopped vomiting completely after one to three sessions of medical hypnosis.
How does it work?
Whether you come into my office or work with me virtually, I will talk you into a dreamy like state where your fears and doubts are quieted. I will then guide you to re-frame beliefs and release fears and doubts associated with pregnancy and postpartum. In this state, you will feel healthy, strong, confident, and energized and will awaken with a new way of thinking. I cannot make you do anything you don't want to do, and I am not in control - YOU are in control at all times.
My HG program consists of 4 sessions, where we will strategize based on your specific goals so that you feel a sense of power, control, and confidence throughout. Feel free to email me with questions about the program.
The information here is general in nature and not to be taken as professional advice for specific health problems. Any decision you make involving the treatment of an illness should include advice of the medical doctor of your choice. Before making any change with your diet and exercise, be sure to consult with your physician. Do not change medications without professional advice.