Pregnancy is often portrayed as a time of joy and excitement, but for some women, it becomes an unbearable fight for survival. Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is a severe pregnancy complication that goes far beyond morning sickness—it can lead to extreme weight loss, dehydration, malnutrition, and a devastating toll on mental health.
Tragically, Jess Cronshaw, a 26-year-old teacher from the UK, lost her life to HG after being repeatedly failed by the healthcare system. Her daughter, Elsie, was born via emergency C-section at 28 weeks but tragically passed away just four days later.
Her story is heartbreaking, but not unique. HG remains widely misunderstood, dismissed, and undertreated—leading to unnecessary suffering and, in the worst cases, loss of life.
What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum?
HG is a pregnancy condition that causes relentless nausea and vomiting, often 20+ times a day. It is vastly different from typical morning sickness because:
🔹 Women with HG struggle to keep down any food or fluids, leading to severe dehydration and weight loss.
🔹 The condition can last for months or even the entire pregnancy.
🔹 Without proper treatment, hospitalisation is often required for IV fluids and nutrition.
🔹 The mental toll is enormous—many women describe feeling like they are “dying” and experience extreme distress.
Jess Cronshaw’s Story: A Preventable Tragedy
Jess was an ambitious, active, and independent young woman who loved her job as a teacher. According to People, she would wake up at 5am for morning walks, but once HG took hold, she could barely move from her bed or the sofa.
Despite seeing multiple GPs, midwives, nurses, and consultants, Jess never received a proper treatment plan. Her suffering was not recognised or taken seriously.
🔹 She was prescribed anti-sickness medication, which provided some relief, but was later incorrectly told by the hospital to stop taking it.
🔹 She was led to believe the medication would harm her baby, so she weaned herself off without medical guidance.
🔹 Her symptoms came back with full force, leaving her feeling completely hopeless.
At 28 weeks pregnant, Jess took her own life.
Her baby, Elsie, was delivered via emergency C-section, but after four days, the family was told she would not survive.
At the inquest into their deaths, coroner Kate Bissett confirmed that failings in Jess’ care contributed to the decline in her mental health. A lack of proper mental health support and incorrect medical advice ultimately led to this tragic outcome.
Treatment Options for Hyperemesis Gravidarum
HG requires medical intervention, and treatment will depend on the severity of symptoms. Options include:
IV fluids and electrolytes: To combat dehydration and restore nutrients.
Anti-nausea medication: Such as ondansetron (Zofran) or promethazine, prescribed by healthcare providers.
Vitamin B6 and doxylamine: Often used as a first-line treatment for nausea.
Corticosteroids: In severe cases where other medications fail.
Dietary modifications: Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding triggers.
Alternative therapies: Acupressure, acupuncture, and ginger supplements (under medical supervision).
Hospitalisation: For extreme cases requiring IV nutrition or feeding tubes.
The Overlooked Mental Toll of HG
HG is not just physically exhausting – it can completely shatter a woman’s mental health.
🔹 Many women feel isolated, dismissed, and unheard by medical professionals.
🔹 The constant nausea and dehydration can trigger severe depression and anxiety.
🔹 Suicidal thoughts are alarmingly common among those with severe HG.
Jess’ mother, Susan, is now advocating for improved healthcare and mental health support for women suffering from HG. She doesn’t want any other mother to feel as alone and desperate as Jess did.
How Can We Do Better?
Healthcare providers, family members, and friends must take HG seriously to prevent further tragedies.
🔹 Doctors and midwives need better training to recognise and treat HG properly.
🔹 Women must be provided with safe and effective treatment plans—not just dismissed with “try ginger biscuits.”
🔹 Mental health support should be a priority for those battling this debilitating condition.
🔹 Partners, family, and friends should offer unwavering support, practical help, and emotional reassurance.
If You Are Suffering From HG, You Are Not Alone
If you are struggling with Hyperemesis Gravidarum, know that:
💛 You are not weak. This is a medical condition, not something you can “push through.”
💛 You deserve proper medical care. If your symptoms are dismissed, advocate for yourself or seek another provider.
💛 Your mental health matters. If you are feeling hopeless, please reach out for support.
No woman should have to suffer in silence. Jess’ story is a heartbreaking reminder of what happens when HG is ignored – but we can change this by raising awareness, demanding better care, and supporting those who need help.
