Reports say 26-year-old Jessica Cronshaw suffered from an extreme version of pregnancy sickness.
(Source: David Cronshaw Facebook)
Three years after her pregnant daughter took her own life, a mother is spreading awareness about a debilitating condition she suffered from.
In 2022, 26-year-old Jessica Cronshaw, of England, was 28 weeks pregnant when she took her own life, according to ITV News. Despite efforts to deliver Jessica’s daughter Elsie via an emergency C section, the newborn died four days later. Jessica’s mother, Susan Cronshaw, says her daughter was diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), an extreme version of pregnancy sickness. “Jess experienced constant nausea and couldn’t eat or drink anything without vomiting,” explained Susan.
While Jessica sought medical treatment, Susan says that no one truly recognized how sick she was or gave her a proper treatment plan. According to Susan, Jessica was prescribed an anti-sickness medication that seemed to help. She was later told she should stop taking it, as it could harm her unborn child. However, Susan says this was misinformation, and it’s unclear why she was given that advice.
Before she got pregnant, Jessica was ambitious, active and independent. She was a teacher who would often get up early for morning walks. Susan says all of that stopped when she got pregnant, as Jessica could barely move from her bed on some days. In the coroner’s report, it was reported that failings in Jessica’s care contributed to the deterioration in her mental health. According to ITV News, the coroner highlighted a lack of mental health exploration at routine antenatal appointments and the incorrect advice to wean off anti-sickness medication.
“I wouldn’t want anybody to feel how Jess did, she felt like no one was listening, and they weren’t. It felt like you were just pushed from pillar to post. There was nobody taking it and being in charge of it,” Susan told ITV News.
Jessica Cronshaw and her mother Susan. (Credit: ITV News)
HG is a condition that causes extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. As a result of the vomiting, other symptoms include dehydration, dizziness and weight loss. According to the Cleveland Clinic, HG is different from morning sickness, and should be treated as such. Morning sickness is common during pregnancy and could cause occasional nausea, however, you should be able to keep food and liquids down throughout the day. HG causes you to vomit several times a day, and symptoms last longer than morning sickness. Those who suffer from HG describe their symptoms as debilitating. While it is unclear what causes HG, some believe it could be due to changing hormone levels.
If you believe you suffer from HG, or have been diagnosed with HG, it is important you speak with your healthcare provider. If you feel your concerns aren’t being addressed, seek a second opinion. If you are unable to advocate for yourself, reach out to your spouse, a family member or friend who could advocate for you. It is possible to treat HG with prescription medication or IV fluids.
Remember, you are not alone in your pregnancy. And if you are having suicidal thoughts, call or text the national suicide crisis line at 988.