So Your Misses Got Hyperemesis (Gravidarum)

What is the reason that some women suffer from HG and others don’t?

Research from UCLA has shown that genetics play a significant role. Among women with HG, high levels of two genes called GDF15 and IGFBP7 were found. The genetic origin of hyperemesis explains why it often runs in families. This discovery is hopeful for the future development of drugs for hyperemesis that directly target those genes.

This research was led by a genetic researcher named Marlene Feijo, who underwent termination due to undiagnosed and untreated hyperemesis gravidarum. In 2024, Time magazine named her one of its Women of the Year.

There are also claims that hyperemesis is linked to emotional trauma experienced by the woman. I didn’t find prominent official studies on the subject, but from my conversations with women suffering from hyperemesis, I noticed that many of them have endured challenging lives or are dealing with post-traumatic stress. 

My wife also fits this criterion, after experiencing a difficult childhood and complicated life. So what is the source of hyperemesis? Genetic? Emotional? In my personal opinion, it’s a combination of both. 

But I’m not a scientist, just a guy with a wife who vomits 24/7.