Trauma specialist lens of Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A meta-ethnography and grounded theory study

Sage, Caitlin 2026. Trauma specialist lens of Hyperemesis Gravidarum: A meta-ethnography and grounded theory study. ClinPsy Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is a severe and incapacitating condition that affects pregnant people. The prevalence of HG is suggested to range from 0.3-3.6% of pregnancies, and current literature highlights the potential consequences for both mother and baby, such as impaired foetal growth, pre-eclampsia, vitamin deficiencies, suicidal ideation, and elective terminations. The combination of historical stigma surrounding pregnancy, gendered stereotypes and social narratives often leaves women’s expressions of distress unheard. Despite the potential consequences for mother and baby, HG is often misunderstood as morning sickness, and women frequently report barriers to accessing necessary medical interventions and validation for their experiences. This meta-ethnographic review explores how women’s interactions with healthcare professionals (HCPs) shape their physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing. A systematic literature search was conducted of qualitative research on women with HG and their experiences with HCPs. Sixteen papers met the inclusion criteria and were assessed for quality. Through synthesising the data, an overarching theme of ‘Power’ emerged, which could act as either protective or detrimental to women’s symptom experience and psychological wellbeing. Power operates across three levels: service, societal, and individual. These findings support existing research that gendered assumptions about women and female-specific conditions create barriers to accessing care and treatment. Recommendations are made for future research and improvements in healthcare services to support better outcomes for women experiencing HG.

Item Type:	Thesis (DClinPsy)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Hyperemesis Gravidarum; patient experiences; healthcare professional interactions; psychological wellbeing; gender bias; access to care; power
Funders:	N/A
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	25 September 2026
Last Modified:	01 Oct 2026 09:43
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/189788

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