The After Birth Doula
Sam Clarke: HG Survivor & Specialized Doula
I am a mom of three and survivor of three Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) pregnancies. I provide gentle trauma aware, compassionate support, virtually or in person, for parents, partners and support people navigating the physical, emotional, and practical challenges of HG.
Clinical Advocacy & Navigation
HG is more than just morning sickness, its a debilitating clinical condition. Having endured three HG pregnancies, I know how isolating and overwhelming it can feel. I provide support to help you: track medications and treatments, monitor hydration and nutrition, and advocate effectively with your medical team. Support can be in person or virtual and my goal is to ensure your severity and needs are fully understood by your providers.
Note: While I can offer guidance, tracking support and help preparing questions for you medical team, I do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All medical decisions and care should be directed by your healthcare provider.
Scent-Free Sanctuary Support
For HG sufferers everyday scents and household triggers can provoke severe nausea and traumatic responses. I help you identify and reduce environment triggers, whether virtually or in person by: setting up scent free laundry and cooking protocols, organizing calming, restful spaces, and helping your home become a sanctuary where you can finally rest.
Extending Support for Partners & Caregivers
HG doesn't only affect the person who is pregnant, it is a trauma deeply felt by partners and support people. My gentle, trauma-aware care extends to your entire system. I help partners process the fear and exhaustion of the journey so no one has to carry the weight alone. Support for your caregivers can look like: helping partners process fear, exhaustion and anxiety, offering practical guidance on supporting the person with HG, and creating a validating and safe space for the entire family.
Understanding HG
What is Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG)?
HG is a severe pregnancy illness characterized by extreme nausea, vomiting, dehydration, and weight loss. Unlike typical morning sickness, it can affect nutrition, energy levels, and emotional well being, and often requires medical management.
How I can help:
Through lived experience and postpartum doula training I provide:
-Emotional and practical guidance during hospital stays or at home
-Advocacy for medical care
-Tools for creating calm environments
Support for partners and the entire family system including children
Virtual or in person my goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and understood.
What does Virtual and In Person support look like?
Support tailored to your needs can look like:
-Daily or weekly check-ins
-Monitoring hydration and symptom trends
-Meal and rest planning
-Partner coaching and guidance
-Hospital or medical appointment advocacy
-Environmental adjustments for comfort and safety
It can also be as simple as sitting with you and listening or helping with self care.
How does trauma-aware care help HG survivors?
HG often leaves lasting traces of fear and hyper-vigilance. My support is built on the understanding of this trauma, providing a quiet, safe space where your symptoms are taken seriously and your emotional health is prioritized alongside your physical recovery.
If you're experiencing Hyperemesis
If you're experiencing hyperemesis you may be feeling completely overwhelmed. You might be struggling to keep food or water down., feeling isolated, or wondering how you'll make it through the next day.
Many HG survivors describe feeling dismissed or misunderstood because their illness is often mistaken for typical morning sickness. But HG is not just morning sickness, it is a serious pregnancy condition that can affect your body, your mental health, and your entire family.
If this is your reality, please know that you are not weak, dramatic or failing. HG is incredibly difficult, and you deserve compassionate support while you navigate it.
You, Your Partner, and Your Support Team Deserve Care
No one should have to face HG alone. With compassionate, trauma aware support you can feel empowered to navigate this challenging journey. Together, we'll find strategies and resources to help you, your baby, and your family feel cared for and supported.