S3 EP: 6 Renee - First Time Mum, Homebirth, Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), Bleed @17 weeks.

In this episode, Renee shares her experience of choosing a home birth for her first baby, explaining what led her to that decision and how she prepared for it. 

She speaks openly about her intense journey with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), describing the constant nausea, relentless vomiting, and exhaustion that lasted throughout her entire pregnancy — right up until the moment she gave birth. Renee talks about everything she tried to manage it, including medications, IV fluids, and natural approaches, and the emotional and physical toll of living with little relief. She also reflects on the financial strain caused by months of sickness and lost work. 

At 17 weeks, she experienced a small bleed, adding extra worry during an already difficult time. She also discusses what it was like breastfeeding her large toddler while pregnant and how demanding that was on her body. Finally, Renee shares how she’s working to heal — physically, emotionally, and mentally — after such a challenging pregnancy.

Links:

• Embrace Midwifery Services
• HER foundation 
• HER foundation - HELP Score
• Hyperemesis Australia 
• Hyperemesis Australia - PUQE-24 Score
• Nausea & vomiting + HG factsheet
• GDF15 linked to maternal risk of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy 
• Midwives Cauldron - HG info
• The Great Birth Rebellion - Nausea & Vomiting (not HG)
• The chance of recurrence of HG
• Recurrence, postponing pregnancy, and termination rates after HG