Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Date: 2001-05-09

Question:
READY TO ABORT BABY DUE TO HG

My friend has Hyperemesis Gravidarum and is in her 4th month. She has 2 young children. Right now she is in a Toronto area hospital ( for the 3rd time), the vomiting hasn't stopped, her veins are damaged from multiple iv's, she is in a lot of pain and is ready to terminate her baby. She has given up hope

a) What long term care can OHIP offer her? She can't stay at the hospital forever

b) Does Toronto have a HG support group? She doesn't know of any women suffering to the extent she is

c) Are there any ob/gyns who are especially sympathetic and specialize in HG

Please, please help

Answer:
The plight of your friend who is hospitalized with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) sadly rings true with us. Our Helpline was actually started when some of our doctors became aware that women were terminating wanted pregnancies due to severe HG. HG affects 1 percent of all women with NVP and we know that the condition is absolutely debilitating. Your friend's medical team is best able to treat her. She is also welcome to call us for further information at 1-800-436-8477.