The quote suggests a character questioning whether someone experienced a particular situation as a result of eating or if there is a more shocking reason, like pregnancy. It reflects a blunt or humorous attitude, possibly indicating surprise or incredulity about the circumstances.
In context, it showcases Dorothy Dunnett's style of using sharp and witty dialogue to reveal character personality and reactions. The line combines everyday humor with a touch of irreverence, adding a vivid tone to the scene in the book Queens' Play.