What makes you throw up when pregnant?

Ah, morning sickness. The magical time of day when you get to showcase your new acrobatic skills over the toilet bowl. Every woman’s favorite part of pregnancy sarcasm roars. But seriously, what is it about being pregnant that makes us yak our guts out at the slightest whiff of garlic or coffee? Let’s dive into this topic and see if we can unravel some of the mysteries behind morning sickness.

Hormones Gone Wild

Blame it on the hormones! Yep, our old friend estrogen and her partner in crime progesterone are largely responsible for making us feel nauseous during early pregnancy. These two rascals wreak havoc on our digestive system by slowing down gastric emptying (aka moving food through our system), relaxing the muscles in our stomach and intestines, and increasing sensitivity to certain odors.

It Runs In The Family

Got a family history of morning sickness? Sorry sister but chances are you’re gonna join that club too! A 2010 study found that women with a family member who experienced morning sickness were three times more likely to experience it themselves (there goes any hope I had). All those holiday dinners with Aunt Mildred talking about how much she puked definitely have taken a toll!

Your Sense Of Smell Is Superhuman

One minute you love the smell of lemons and then pow…they send you running towards porcelain throne faster than Usain Bolt runs for Gold! Believe it or not, research has shown that pregnant women have an enhanced sense of smell compared to non-pregnant women (apparently growing another human-being also gives us superpowers). This increased olfactory capacity could be due to higher levels of estrogen facilitating communication between areas in our brain responsible for processing smells (cool huh?).

Stressful Times Call For Puke Measures!

Stress can wreak total havoc on our body and mind! And let’s face it, being pregnant is stressful. Having an extra human-being growing inside you ain’t easy folks! Stressful thoughts or situations can cause us to feel nauseous or throw up. So take a deep breath, enjoy the smell of freshly baked cookies (if that doesn’t make you chuck then nothing will), and remember why its all worth it!

Carbs, Fats & Puke

Ever hear the phrase ‘eat like a bird’? Yeah well…that does NOT apply during pregnancy! It’s important to eat as healthily as possible for both momma and baby but when we’re feeling nauseous that becomes pretty damn hard. The cure? CARBS AND FAT!! Yep ladies, reach for those crackers and avocados (not together) because studies have shown these two lil magic formulas work wonders in reducing morning sickness.

A small 2013 study revealed women who consumed more fat had less severe symptoms, while a 2006 study found carbs before bed reduced nausea upon waking up.

Here are some other top-notch food choices if you find yourself on the verge of hurling:

  • Ginger
  • Bananas
  • Oatmeal
  • Applesauce
  • Chicken broth

When To Call In The Big Guns?

If your vomiting isn’t manageable at home with a few diet changes here are some warning signs which could indicate something more serious is happening:

  • Sudden weight loss
    (hey not every fad diet works right away).
  • Blood in vomit
    (um yeah I think we can all agree this is bad news).
  • Severe abdominal pain
    (NOPE NOPE NOPE).
    Still concerned about your inability to keep food down? Don’t ignore symptoms – talk to your medical provider sooner rather than later!

The Joy Of Morning Sickness…

Pregnancy is a wild and crazy ride, and morning sickness is just part of the package. Remember ladies that this too shall pass (as long as you don’t look at/smell anything remotely gross)! So, curl up in your favorite blanket with some crackers and ginger ale (insert any other carb heavy option here), if all else fails put on some Harry Potter (yep that one always works)and ride out the storm.

Quick Summary

  • Hormones are largely responsible for making us feel nauseous during early pregnancy.
  • Family history plays a big role in who gets morning sickness (lucky ugh)!
  • Pregnant women have an enhanced sense of smell compared to non-pregnant women (fascinating huh?)
  • Stressful situations can bring about nausea or vomiting episodes which sucks!
  • Fatty foods and carbs come highly recommended when fighting off morning sicknes.
  • If your symptoms persists it may be worth talking to your medical provider sooner rather than later.

Now ladies, excuse me while I dig into my pre-lunch avocado toast topped with pickles because…why not? Pregnancy cravings don’t judge!

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