Pregnant and worried :(

Orchids

If anyone could offer any words of advice I would be grateful !

I was made redundant about 4 months ago from my office job. Since then I have been claiming Income Based JSA.

I found out that I am pregnant about 3 weeks ago, and have told the Job Centre so they have it on record already.

My problem is that I am so sick that I can hardly function. It's not only nausea but I am literally being sick everytime I try and eat something or just because!

I actually had an interview a few days ago in my local Waitrose and had to end it half way through whilst I ran out to be sick. I have lost 6lbs in the past week and literally my days are spent in my pjs in bed as the sickness is getting worse, not better.

I am sincerely hoping that it is just a first trimester thing, but my mother suffered terribly with the same kind of nausea and sickness all through her pregnancy with my brother.

The interview is the only place that I have been in the past week and a half. I am dreading having to go and sign on Friday incase I need to vomit whilst I am there...

I really am at a loss as to what to do... I am in no fit state to look for work at the moment, I would be no use to anyone really and feel a fraud going to the Job Centre ....

I have an appointment with my GP next week as I am worried about the sudden weight loss, but am also very concerned if I tell the Job Centre that I cannot look for work that they will stop my money (not that I am spending anything on food... )

Has anyone been in the same boat, or can offer any helpful advice?

Thanks in advance.

nannytone_2

you should try claiming ESA instead of JSA as you are clearly not able to work at the moment.
i don't want to make you feel worse but 30 years ago when i was expecting my first baby, i was sick if i as much as moved! it lasted the whole pregnancy and i was even being sick throughout the labour. i only gained 6 pounds in total throughout, but he was still a healthy baby, even if he was small. try not to worry too much and good luck!

Orchids

Thanks so much for your post.

Can I ask how I go about changing to ESA? Would it mean I have to stop JSA and then put in a claim for ESA? As if I couldn't have a smooth transition I don't think i could afford to...

I really am hoping I don't have the full on sickness like you and my Mum, it's hard enough as it is... I can't imagine what that's like

nannytone_2

to be honest, i don't know the best way to go about it.
if youre not actively seeking work ( i totally understand and sympathise as to why you cant) you are not entitled to JSA. the advisors at the job centre should know how to sort it out.
also pop along to the doctors so they can 'sign you off' as you will need a sick/fit note.

clairec79

hyperemisis gravidarum is a valid condition and if you can't keep anything down then you may need to be admitted to hos[pital.

from what you have said if you were employed at the moment then you wouldn't be capable of going to work, would you? you are sick ESA may be a better option for you

lauren_1

I would be constantly bugging your doctor about this HG is a very serious condition, dont be fobbed off (usually by middle aged male docs) if all else fails and you are being sick up to 10 times take yourself to A&E as dehydration can make you very ill