Experiencing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is common, but for some, it's extreme. Lisanne shared her story in response to one of our articles, describing 9 months of relentless illness. As someone spared from this myself, her account opened my eyes. Here's Lisanne's firsthand experience…
At 26, living happily with my partner Kay in our cozy home, we decided it was time to start a family. I stopped birth control, and a month later, nausea hit hard. Working in a rehab center during a norovirus outbreak, I assumed that's what it was—symptoms matched. Kay urged a pregnancy test, but I dismissed it: 'I just stopped the pill.' Pregnancy, let alone hyperemesis gravidarum (extreme morning sickness), seemed impossible so soon.
But reality proved otherwise.
Read also: Deep in the shit because of the Norovirus
Table of contents
It's Sunday, and Kay, a military man, heads out for 6 weeks of training. Nausea worsens daily until Wednesday, when I wake up vomiting. My 25th birthday follows that Saturday—we planned a walk. To be safe, I take a test: positive. Thrilled but alone, with Kay unreachable, the nausea now makes sense, though it persists.
Finally reaching Kay, he's overjoyed. I explain constant nausea and vomiting, noting online that morning sickness often eases by week 12-16.
By week 6, nausea escalates to 10-20 vomits daily, anytime. I carry a bucket everywhere, but often can't reach it. Sounds and lights overwhelm me; I stay bedbound. Showers require help due to exhaustion.
I hide the severity—pregnancy should bring joy, not complaints, especially when others struggle to conceive. I felt guilty sharing. Outings bring unhelpful remarks: 'You don't look happy,' 'A little nausea is normal,' 'Eat a cracker.'
Read also: A happy pregnancy, can you talk about that?
One night, blood in vomit and fainting prompt a midwife call. Despite my protests, she sends me to hospital: dehydrated, underweight at 47kg (20 weeks pregnant). IV fluids help; I tolerate dry biscuits. #milestone
Discharged after days, relief lasts a week before relapse. Even TV images trigger vomiting. This affects our relationship too—household tasks prove impossible amid constant nausea.
Nine months without sleep; teeth ache from acid. Brushing triggers instant vomiting. Dehydration causes muscle pain, weakness.
Loneliness hits despite support from family and friends—too stimulating. I try working sporadically; my understanding manager offers flexibility and even a permanent contract.
Read also: rib pain during pregnancy, with this you can relieve it
Labor brings relief after 9 grueling months. Yet, joyful moments like feeling baby kicks and extra ultrasounds (due to 'medical pregnancy') shine through.
On September 26, 2016, daughter Lily Rosie arrives via C-section. Nausea vanishes post-op; I devour a filet American sandwich after months of Nutridrink (NG tube failed due to throat damage).
Recovery is swift—out to dinner a week post-C-section. A few pounds remain, but I'm optimistic.
And now?
We want more kids, but hyperemesis looms. For now, we're cherishing Lily.
Love,
Lisanne
Image used via Shutterstock
