Dr Margaret O’Hara has been a volunteer for PSS for 15 years, and a Trustee for 10.  She is a co-author on the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists clinical practice guidelines for Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy and Hyperemesis Gravidarum. 

Having observed several relatives suffer with Hyperemesis Gravidarum, she conducted her own research on treatment protocols before becoming pregnant and found a clinician who prescribed antiemetics as soon as her HG started. Knowing that treatment for HG is effective and available she has worked ever since to improve things for others suffering the condition. 

She has conducted and published original research in the lived experience of women with HG and collaborated with international scientists on numerous studies. 

Having been a volunteer with the charity since April 2021, Marianne joined the support team in March 2023 as a point of contact for people contacting the charity via our digital helpline channels for information about nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and HG. Her role soon developed in to managing the peer support programme and her enthusiasm, professionalism and dedication soon saw her being promoted in 2024 to Helpline Manager. 

Having suffered with HG in three out of her four pregnancies, Marianne has a good understanding of the condition, and is passionate about working with the charity to improve knowledge and care for those suffering.  Marianne was previously a primary school teacher before taking some time off to be with her family, and is now excited to have officially joined the team here at Pregnancy Sickness Support.

Dr Shazia Zafar is a research scientist specialising in applied health research. She has worked on large National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) programme grants, including projects in collaboration with Public Health England working with ICBs, clinicians and vulnerable adults. Dr Zafar has led and contributed to research at both national and international levels. Her research investigates issues with direct benefit to the public. These include maternity, abuse and violence, mental health, and Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). Dr Zafar is focusing current HG research in key areas of the HG priority James Lindt alliance questions and collaborating internationally on HG research.

Dr Zafar has been a volunteer for PSS, Trustee and Chair. She also serves as the charity’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer, supporting inclusive practice across its work.