Hyperemesis: It's Not Just Morning Sickness

For some women, pregnancy sickness means a few weeks of nausea. For others, it can mean months of relentless vomiting, hospital admissions, severe dehydration, and an illness that takes over every aspect of their lives. This week on Family Tribe, Afif and Anne are joined by Dr. Naomi Smith, GP, trustee of Hyperemesis Ireland, and patient representative involved in developing Ireland's newly published national guidelines on Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). Both Naomi and Anne have experienced hyperemesis themselves, and they share their deeply personal experiences of an illness that is too often misunderstood, underestimated, or dismissed as simply part of pregnancy. Together, we explore what actually causes hyperemesis, including fascinating new discoveries involving the hormone GDF15, why early treatment matters, and what medications are available and considered safe during pregnancy. We also discuss the potentially life-threatening complications of severe HG, from dehydration and electrolyte disturbances to malnutrition, neurological complications, and the need for high-dependency care. Importantly, Naomi explains what's changed in Ireland's new national guidelines, why urine ketones should no longer determine whether a woman receives treatment, and how the voices of women who have experienced HG helped shape the recommendations. And, of course, we talk about the emotional toll, the impact on relationships and families, and why simply listening to women can make an enormous difference. There's also a rather unfortunate story involving Afif, garlic chips, and a complete lack of sympathy. Some things never change. The message is simple: Hyperemesis is real. It can be serious. It is treatable. And women deserve to be heard long before they reach breaking point. Links and resources2026 Irish National Clinical Guideline: Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Nausea/Vomiting in Pregnancy https://www.hyperemesis.ie/healthcare-professionals/guidelines/ Hyperemesis Ireland: Information, resources and support for women and families affected by HG. https://www.hyperemesis.ie Instagram: Hyperemesis Ireland https://www.instagram.com/hyperemesisireland/ If you're struggling with severe pregnancy sickness, speak to your GP or maternity team. You do not need to wait until you're severely dehydrated or losing significant weight to ask for help. This episode includes discussions of severe illness, mental health difficulties and pregnancy termination. Follow Family Tribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and please share this episode with someone who might need to hear it.