Why do pregnant people puke?

There are several reasons why pregnant people experience vomiting, commonly known as morning sickness:

1. Hormonal changes: The primary reason for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy is hormonal changes, particularly the increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone is produced by the placenta and its levels rapidly rise during early pregnancy. hCG is thought to impact the digestive system, causing nausea and vomiting.

2. Enhanced sense of smell: Increased sensitivity to odors during pregnancy can also trigger nausea. Strong or unpleasant smells, including certain foods, perfumes, and household products, can induce vomiting.

3. Gastric emptying: Progesterone, another hormone that increases during pregnancy, relaxes the muscles of the digestive system, including the stomach. This can slow down the emptying of the stomach, leading to feelings of nausea.

4. Changes in blood sugar: Pregnant individuals may experience low blood sugar levels, especially if they are not eating enough or if their body demands more energy than usual. Low blood sugar can contribute to nausea and vomiting.

5. Food aversions and cravings: Pregnancy often brings about changes in food preferences, with some foods becoming unappealing or even triggering nausea. This avoidance of certain foods can contribute to an upset stomach and vomiting.

It's important to note that while morning sickness is common during pregnancy, it doesn't affect all individuals and can vary in severity. Severe and persistent vomiting may indicate a medical condition called hyperemesis gravidarum and requires medical attention.