19/09/2025
The largest study to date on hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), involving almost half a million women across 18 countries, has confirmed what our community has long known: HG is not only physically devastating, it carries a serious mental health toll.
Researchers found:
🔹 Over 50% higher risk of 13 mental health conditions, including PTSD and postpartum psychosis
🔹 Twice the risk of Wernicke’s encephalopathy, refeeding syndrome, eating disorders and depression
🔹 Postpartum depression 2.7 times more likely
Crucially, the research shows that the severity of sickness does not predict the level of psychological harm. Women with so-called “mild” HG can be at serious risk, too. This proves what we hear every day: HG is a trauma, a perinatal trauma that deserves the same recognition and response as birth trauma.
We are calling for HG to be fully included in maternal mental health pathways, alongside conditions such as tokophobia. Women must not be left to fall through the cracks.
At PSS, we launched the UK’s only specialist HG counselling service in 2023 to meet this urgent need, but it remains unfunded, leaving women dependent on a charity for essential care. This research makes clear that HG is both a physical and mental health emergency, and services must urgently reflect that reality.
If you are struggling, please reach out: speak to your GP or midwife and ask for an urgent referral to perinatal mental health support, and know that our helpline, peer supporters and counselling service are here for you. If you need urgent support, please call 999 or contact the Samaritans on 116 123 đź’›
Read the study here: https://ow.ly/OjP750WZfJr
