Ever found yourself desperately craving ice chips, dirt, or even laundry detergent while pregnant? If so, welcome to the peculiar world of pica during pregnancy – that strange phenomenon where expecting mothers develop intense urges to consume non-food items.
What Is Pica During Pregnancy?
A. Pica During Pregnancy: Meaning
Pica is a condition where pregnant women crave and consume non-food items that have no nutritional value. These unusual cravings go far beyond the typical pregnancy hankerings for pickles and ice cream. Women with pica might find themselves drawn to substances like:
- Clay or dirt
- Chalk
- Laundry starch
- Ice (called pagophagia)
- Paper
- Soap
- Ashes
- Pebbles or stones
- Toothpaste
- Baking soda
- Cornstarch
This isn’t just a quirky pregnancy story to share at baby showers. Pica is recognized as a legitimate eating disorder that requires attention, especially during pregnancy when both maternal and fetal health are concerns.
B. What Is Pica During Pregnancy Often Linked To?
Pica during pregnancy frequently connects to several underlying factors:
Nutritional Deficiencies: Iron deficiency anemia stands out as the most common link. Many pregnant women with pica show significantly low iron levels. The body may instinctively seek substances that might contain minerals it’s lacking.
Cultural Factors: In some cultures, consuming certain non-food substances during pregnancy is considered normal or beneficial. These practices may be passed down through generations.
Psychological Aspects: Stress, anxiety, and other psychological factors can trigger pica behaviors. Some women report that the texture or taste of non-food items provides comfort during pregnancy.
Hormonal Changes: The dramatic hormonal shifts during pregnancy can alter taste perceptions and cravings.
Childhood History: Women who experienced pica as children may see the behavior return during pregnancy.
Research suggests that between 8% and 28% of pregnant women experience some form of pica, with rates varying significantly based on geographic region, cultural background, and socioeconomic status.
How Common Is Pica in Pregnancy?
Prevalence Based on Recent Studies
Pica during pregnancy isn’t as uncommon as many might think. Based on recent studies, about 25-38% of pregnant women experience some form of pica cravings. This rate varies significantly depending on geographical location, cultural background, and socioeconomic factors.
In the United States, research shows that approximately 8-28% of pregnant women report pica behaviors, with higher rates among African American women compared to other ethnic groups. A 2023 cross-sectional study examining 1,500 pregnant women across five major cities found that ice craving (pagophagia) was the most common form, affecting about 20% of participants.
Global statistics reveal even higher rates in some regions:
| Region | Prevalence Rate | Most Common Substances |
|---|---|---|
| Africa | 30-45% | Clay, soil, ash |
| Latin America | 23-44% | Dirt, clay, laundry starch |
| Asia | 15-30% | Ice, clay, ash |
| Europe | 8-15% | Ice, chalk, paper |
The prevalence tends to peak during the second trimester when many women report the strongest cravings. A longitudinal study published in early 2025 tracked 2,200 pregnancies and found that pica behaviors typically emerged around weeks 12-16 and often persisted until delivery if left unaddressed.
Researchers have noted that pica is frequently underreported due to embarrassment or cultural stigma, suggesting actual prevalence rates may be higher than documented in clinical settings. Healthcare providers increasingly recognize the importance of screening for pica during prenatal visits, particularly when patients show signs of nutritional deficiencies.
What Causes Pica During Pregnancy?
Why Do Women Get Pica During Pregnancy?
Pica during pregnancy manifests as intense cravings for non-food substances like ice, dirt, chalk, or clay. This puzzling condition affects approximately 25-30% of pregnant women worldwide, with higher rates in certain cultural groups and developing countries.
The exact cause remains somewhat mysterious, but several theories explain this phenomenon. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy dramatically alter taste perception and smell sensitivity. These changes may trigger unusual cravings as the body attempts to navigate this new sensory landscape.
Psychological factors also play a significant role. Pregnancy brings substantial stress and emotional changes, and some women may turn to non-food substances as a coping mechanism. Cultural influences cannot be overlooked either, as pica practices are sometimes passed down through generations as traditional pregnancy behaviors.
Evolutionary biologists suggest pica might be an ancient protective mechanism. Certain clays can bind to toxins in food, potentially protecting both mother and developing baby from harmful substances. This theory may explain why pica is observed across diverse cultures and periods.
Pica During Pregnancy Is Often Associated With a Deficiency in Which Nutrient? Role of iron, zinc, and calcium
Nutrient deficiencies are the most well-documented cause of pica during pregnancy. Iron deficiency anemia shows the strongest connection, with research consistently finding higher pica rates among iron-deficient pregnant women. The body, desperately seeking iron, may trigger unusual cravings in an attempt to obtain this vital mineral.
| Nutrient | Deficiency Symptoms | Connection to Pica |
|---|---|---|
| Iron | Fatigue, pale skin, brittle nails | Strongest link, especially with ice cravings (pagophagia) |
| Zinc | Reduced taste sensitivity, poor wound healing | May trigger soil or clay consumption |
| Calcium | Muscle cramps, numbness in extremities | Associated with chalk and clay cravings |
Zinc deficiency affects taste perception and may contribute to pica behaviors. This mineral plays a crucial role in immune function and cell growth – both vital during pregnancy. When zinc levels drop, pregnant women might instinctively seek unusual substances.
Calcium deficiency similarly connects to pica, particularly cravings for chalk, limestone, and certain clays. The dramatic increase in calcium needs during pregnancy (supporting fetal bone development) can deplete maternal stores rapidly.
The mineral content in some craved substances partially explains these connections. Clay, chalk, and certain soils contain varying amounts of these minerals, though consuming them poses significant risks despite any potential mineral content.
Types of Pica Cravings During Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings unusual cravings, but pica takes these urges to another level. Women with pica during pregnancy develop intense desires to consume non-food substances. These cravings vary widely, with some types being more common than others.
Pica During Pregnancy: Ice Cravings
Ice cravings (pagophagia) rank as the most common form of pica during pregnancy. Many pregnant women find themselves constantly munching on ice cubes, crushed ice, or even frozen popsicles. This craving often indicates iron deficiency anemia, a condition affecting up to 20% of pregnant women.
Signs of ice pica include:
- Filling glasses with ice rather than drinks
- Carrying ice cups everywhere
- Waking up at night to eat ice
- Feeling specific cravings for certain ice textures
While ice consumption is less harmful than other pica substances, excessive ice chewing can damage tooth enamel and potentially irritate the mouth and throat. Medical professionals typically recommend iron supplements when treating pregnancy-related ice cravings.
Craving Sand, Clay, or Chalk During Pregnancy
Geophagia—the consumption of earth substances like clay, soil, chalk, or sand—represents another concerning form of pica. This practice dates back centuries in some cultures but poses significant health risks during pregnancy.
Clay and soil may contain:
- Harmful bacteria and parasites
- Toxic metals, including lead and mercury
- Chemicals that block nutrient absorption
These cravings often signal mineral deficiencies, particularly iron, zinc, or calcium. The texture and smell of these substances trigger powerful urges in affected women. Unlike ice cravings, consuming earth substances carries serious risk, including intestinal blockages, constipation, and potential exposure to toxins harmful to both mother and baby.
Any pregnant woman experiencing these cravings should discuss them openly with healthcare providers to identify underlying deficiencies and develop safe alternatives to satisfy these urges.
Dangers & Risks of Pica in Pregnancy
Pica during pregnancy can lead to several serious health complications for both the mother and baby. When pregnant women consume non-food substances like clay, dirt, ice, laundry starch, or other unusual items, they expose themselves to potential toxins and parasites that their bodies aren’t equipped to process.
The practice can cause:
- Intestinal blockages or perforations requiring emergency surgery
- Dental damage from chewing hard substances like ice or clay
- Lead poisoning from consuming contaminated soil or clay
- Parasitic infections from soil-based organisms
- Bacterial infections from unclean substances
- Displacement of nutritious foods in the diet
- Nutritional deficiencies affecting fetal development
- Preterm labor in severe cases
- Complications during delivery
The Main Risk to a Woman Who Practices Pica During Pregnancy Is
Nutritional deficiency stands as the primary danger. When non-food items replace proper nutrition, both mother and baby suffer. Iron deficiency anemia is particularly common, creating a dangerous cycle where the deficiency may actually intensify pica cravings.
Other significant risks include:
- Poisoning from toxins: Substances like clay or dirt may contain harmful chemicals, pesticides, or heavy metals, including lead and mercury.
- Mechanical injuries: Hard or sharp objects can damage the digestive tract, causing tears or blockages that might require surgical intervention.
- Metabolic disturbances: Some substances interfere with medication absorption or disrupt electrolyte balance.
- Harmful bacterial exposure: Non-food items harbor pathogens that can cause serious infections during pregnancy when immunity is naturally suppressed.
- Compromised birth outcomes: Research shows associations between pica and complications like preterm birth, low birth weight, and smaller head circumference in newborns.
The psychological impact shouldn’t be overlooked either. Many women feel shame or embarrassment about their cravings, potentially avoiding proper prenatal care out of fear of judgment.
Pica Disorder During Pregnancy & Substance Misuse
Pregnancy changes everything—cravings included. While those midnight pickle-and-ice-cream runs are normal, pica takes cravings to another level. The connection between pica and substance misuse during pregnancy deserves serious attention.
Pica disorder during pregnancy can sometimes overlap with or mimic patterns seen in substance use disorders. Both involve intense cravings and consumption of potentially harmful substances. The key difference? Pica involves non-food items, while substance misuse typically involves drugs or alcohol.
Healthcare providers often need to differentiate between these conditions. A pregnant woman craving and consuming laundry starch might appear similar to someone seeking substances for relief from pregnancy discomfort. Both behaviors can stem from underlying nutritional deficiencies, psychological stress, or cultural factors.
Risk factors that connect these conditions include:
- History of trauma or mental health challenges
- Socioeconomic stress
- Previous substance use disorders
- Untreated nutritional deficiencies
Treatment approaches share similarities:
- Comprehensive screening at prenatal visits
- Nutritional assessment and supplementation
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Support groups specifically for pregnant women
Many pregnant women feel shame about these cravings and behaviors, hiding them from healthcare providers. Creating a judgment-free environment is crucial for proper screening and treatment.
Proper identification matters—misdiagnosing pica as substance-seeking behavior (or vice versa) leads to inappropriate interventions. Healthcare providers should screen for both conditions separately while acknowledging their potential overlap.
The bottom line? Both conditions require compassionate care, not judgment. With proper support, pregnant women experiencing either pica or substance misuse can have healthier pregnancies.
pica during pregnancy third trimester
Pica during the third trimester of pregnancy can feel strange and even concerning. If you find yourself craving non-food items like mud, chalk, ice, or even laundry starch, you’re not alone—this condition is more common than most people think.
By the third trimester, your baby’s demand for nutrients like iron, calcium, and zinc increases significantly. If your body is running low on these, it might start giving off unusual signals in the form of these odd cravings. While it may seem harmless, eating non-food items can interfere with real nutrition and may even be dangerous for both you and your baby.
It’s important to speak to your doctor or midwife about any such cravings. Blood tests can check for deficiencies, and proper supplements or dietary changes can help resolve the issue. Some women also benefit from stress management or behavioral support if the craving is more habit-driven than nutritional.
How to Manage and Treat Pica During Pregnancy
Pica in Pregnancy: Treatment Options
Managing pica during pregnancy starts with proper diagnosis and understanding the underlying causes. Healthcare providers typically recommend:
- Blood tests: These check for nutritional deficiencies, especially iron, zinc, and calcium, which are commonly linked to pica behaviors.
- Nutritional supplementation: Based on test results, specific vitamins and minerals might be prescribed to address deficiencies.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This can help address the psychological aspects of pica, teaching strategies to resist harmful cravings.
- Family education: Involving family members in the treatment plan creates a support system that helps monitor and discourage dangerous pica behaviors.
Most cases of pregnancy-related pica resolve after delivery, but treatment during pregnancy is crucial to protect both mother and baby.
How to Satisfy Pica Cravings Safely
When those unusual cravings hit, try these safer alternatives:
- For ice cravings: Crushed ice, frozen fruit, or cold beverages can satisfy the urge without the risks associated with excessive ice consumption.
- For clay or dirt cravings: Try crunchy vegetables, nuts, or whole-grain crackers that provide similar texture satisfaction.
- For chalk or starch cravings: Calcium-rich foods like yogurt or cheese might help, along with crunchy snacks.
- For paper or soap cravings: Sugar-free gum can provide the oral stimulation without the harmful effects.
The key is finding safe substitutes that mimic the texture or sensation of the craved non-food item. Small, frequent, nutrient-dense meals can also help control cravings.
How to Treat Pica During Pregnancy Naturally
Several natural approaches can complement medical treatment:
- Balanced nutrition: Focus on iron-rich foods (leafy greens, lean meats), zinc sources (nuts, seeds), and calcium-rich options (dairy, fortified plant milks).
- Mindful eating practices: Eating slowly and mindfully helps distinguish between true hunger and pica urges.
- Distraction techniques: When cravings strike, engaging in another activity like walking, calling a friend, or practicing a hobby can redirect attention.
- Stress management: Since stress can trigger or worsen pica behaviors, practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises may help reduce cravings.
- Food journal: Tracking cravings, when they occur, and potential triggers provides valuable insight for both the pregnant woman and healthcare provider.
- Adequate hydration: Sometimes pica cravings (especially for ice) can indicate dehydration, so drinking plenty of water throughout the day is essential.
Remember that while these natural approaches can help, pica during pregnancy requires medical supervision to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Pica During Pregnancy Reddit Experiences
A. Summary of user stories
Reddit has become a treasure trove of personal accounts from pregnant individuals experiencing pica. Scrolling through forums like r/BabyBumps and r/Pregnancy reveals countless stories of unusual cravings.
Ice consumption dominates the discussion, with many users describing their obsession with specific textures – from crunchy hospital ice to perfectly formed pellet ice from Sonic or Chick-fil-A. One user wrote: “I went through THREE bags of ice daily during my second trimester. Nothing else satisfied me like that perfect crunch.”
Beyond ice, Reddit users report cravings for:
- Chalk, specifically classroom chalk
- Dirt from specific locations
- Laundry detergent pods (never consumed but deeply craved)
- Baking soda mixed with water
- Clay pots and dishware
- Paper products, especially toilet paper
- Uncooked rice and pasta
Many posters describe the overwhelming nature of these urges. A common theme is the shame and confusion felt before discovering others with similar experiences. As one user noted, “Finding this community made me feel normal again. I thought I was losing my mind, craving dirt.”
B. Emotional and mental impact
The psychological burden of pica during pregnancy extends far beyond the physical cravings. Reddit discussions reveal deep emotional struggles faced by those experiencing this condition.
Shame and embarrassment rank among the most common feelings. Many users describe hiding their behaviors from partners, family members, and even healthcare providers out of fear of judgment. One user shared: “I couldn’t tell my doctor I was eating paper. I thought she’d think I was crazy or an unfit mother.”
Anxiety about potential harm to the baby creates additional stress. Pregnant individuals report spending hours researching their specific cravings, trying to determine safety risks while battling overwhelming urges. This cycle often leads to:
- Guilt when giving in to cravings
- Isolation from support systems
- Frustration when doctors dismiss concerns
- Relief when finding online communities
- Fear of judgment from healthcare providers
The Reddit community serves as a crucial support system. Users frequently express gratitude for the validation and understanding they receive. Advice threads typically balance empathy with gentle encouragement to seek medical help, particularly for checking iron levels and other potential nutrient deficiencies.
Many describe their pica as temporary but intense, with cravings often disappearing shortly after delivery, bringing significant emotional relief.
Diagnosis & Medical Codes
A. Pica in Pregnancy ICD-10 Code
Healthcare providers use specific medical codes to document and track conditions like pica during pregnancy. The primary International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10) code for pica in pregnancy is O99.84 – “Eating disorder in pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium.”
This code falls under the broader category of “Other maternal diseases classifiable elsewhere but complicating pregnancy, childbirth, and the puerperium.” When documenting pica during pregnancy, medical professionals may use additional codes to specify:
- Trimester specifics (first, second, or third)
- Any associated nutritional deficiencies
- Complications related to the condition
For billing and medical record purposes, healthcare providers might also use supplementary codes to indicate:
| Related Condition | ICD-10 Code |
|---|---|
| Iron deficiency anemia | D50.9 |
| Other nutritional anemias | D53.9 |
| Adult pica (not pregnancy-specific) | F50.8 |
| Zinc deficiency | E60 |
Proper coding ensures accurate medical documentation and appropriate treatment planning. When a pregnant person presents with symptoms of pica, healthcare providers will document both the behavior and any underlying conditions to develop a comprehensive treatment approach.
The coding also helps track the prevalence of pica during pregnancy, which aids in research and public health initiatives. Insurance companies rely on these codes for coverage determinations, making accurate diagnosis coding essential for patients to receive appropriate care and coverage for treatments related to pica during pregnancy.
When to Seek Medical Help
While pregnancy cravings are normal, pica behaviors can sometimes cross into dangerous territory. Knowing when to get medical help is crucial for both maternal and fetal health.
Medical attention should be sought immediately if:
- Persistent consumption of non-food items continues despite attempts to stop
- Stomach pain, constipation, or intestinal blockage symptoms develop
- Blood appears in stool or vomit (may indicate internal damage)
- Dental problems emerge from chewing hard substances like ice or clay
- Signs of lead poisoning appear (headaches, irritability, abdominal pain)
- Weight loss occurs instead of the appropriate pregnancy weight gain
- Nutritional deficiencies worsen despite supplementation
Particularly dangerous pica behaviors include consuming:
- Soil or clay that might contain parasites or harmful bacteria
- Laundry starch, chalk, or paint chips, which may contain toxic chemicals
- Sharp objects that could cause internal tears or blockages
- Raw starches in large amounts can cause severe blood sugar fluctuations.
- Excessive ice consumption leading to dental damage or the replacement of nutritious foods
Mental health warning signs also warrant attention:
- Obsessive thoughts about non-food substances
- Anxiety or distress when unable to consume craved items
- Hiding pica behavior from healthcare providers or family
- Feeling ashamed but unable to control cravings
Healthcare providers should be informed about any pica behaviors during pregnancy check-ups, even if they seem harmless. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment for underlying issues like iron deficiency, which is often associated with pica during pregnancy.
FAQ on Pica During Pregnancy
What is pica during pregnancy?
Pica during pregnancy is a condition where pregnant women crave and eat non-food items with no nutritional value. These items can include ice, dirt, clay, chalk, soap, paper, laundry starch, or even burnt matches. This unusual eating behavior isn’t just a quirky pregnancy story—it’s recognized as a legitimate medical condition that affects approximately 25-30% of pregnant women worldwide.
Is eating ice during pregnancy a sign of pica?
Yes, craving and compulsively eating ice (called pagophagia) is considered a form of pica during pregnancy. While it might seem harmless compared to eating dirt or soap, excessive ice consumption can damage teeth and gums. Ice cravings are particularly significant because they’re often linked to iron deficiency anemia—a common issue during pregnancy. When pregnant women find themselves filling cups with ice constantly or making special trips to get crushed ice, it’s worth mentioning to a healthcare provider.
How to stop pica cravings while pregnant?
Addressing pica cravings requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Treat underlying nutritional deficiencies, especially iron, zinc, or calcium
- Use distraction techniques when cravings hit (chewing gum, snacking on crunchy vegetables)
- Implement cognitive behavioral therapy to help modify the behavior
- Keep potentially harmful substances out of reach
- Try sensory substitutes that provide a similar texture/sensation (frozen fruit instead of ice)
- Maintain regular prenatal check-ups to monitor overall health
Is pica during pregnancy dangerous?
Pica behaviors during pregnancy can pose serious risks:
- Consumption of non-food substances may contain toxins or harmful bacteria
- Some materials can cause intestinal blockages or damage to the digestive tract
- Lead exposure from eating certain soils or paints can harm fetal development
- Dental damage from chewing hard substances
- Displacement of nutritious foods from the diet
- Potential choking hazards
The severity depends on what substances are being consumed and how frequently.
What nutrient deficiency causes pica?
Iron deficiency is most commonly associated with pica during pregnancy, with studies showing up to 60% of women with pica having low iron levels. However, other nutritional deficiencies linked to pica include:
- Zinc deficiency
- Calcium deficiency
- Vitamin B deficiencies (particularly B12)
Blood tests can identify these deficiencies, and proper supplementation often reduces or eliminates pica cravings. The connection between nutritional deficiencies and pica isn’t fully understood—some researchers believe the body instinctively seeks minerals through non-food sources when deficient, while others suggest deficiencies might affect taste perception or trigger neurological changes that lead to unusual cravings.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Pica During Pregnancy
In Ayurveda, pica (unnatural cravings) during pregnancy is understood as a sign of imbalance in doshas—mainly Vata and Pitta, and a disturbance in Agni (digestive fire) and Rasa Dhatu (nutritive fluids). When the body lacks proper nourishment or is unable to digest food well, it may crave non-food items like mud, chalk, clay, or ice.
1. Cause According to Ayurveda
- Vata imbalance leads to dryness, anxiety, and unusual cravings.
- Pitta aggravation increases heat, leading to acidity, irritability, and craving cooling substances like ice or soil.
- Weak Agni (digestive fire) causes improper digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to Rasa Dhatu kshaya (deficiency).
- Garbha Sanskara texts mention that a mother’s diet and emotions influence fetal development—unnatural cravings signal deeper imbalances.
2. Ayurvedic Remedies for Pica During Pregnancy
a. Nourishment & Rasayana Therapy
- Ashwagandha (250 mg/day): Strengthens the mind and reduces anxiety-related cravings.
- Shatavari (500 mg/day): Supports hormonal balance, nourishes tissues.
- Punarnava Mandur: Natural iron-rich remedy to help correct iron deficiency.
- Triphala with ghee: Supports detoxification and improves nutrient absorption.
b. Iron-Rich Ayurvedic Foods
- Cooked vegetables like spinach, beetroot, and drumstick leaves with ghee.
- Jaggery with ghee or sesame helps improve hemoglobin levels.
- Use of Mandur Bhasma under medical supervision for chronic iron deficiency.
3. Daily Ayurvedic Routine for Managing Pica
- Start the day with warm water + ½ tsp turmeric.
- Eat small, warm meals with digestive spices like cumin, ajwain, and ginger.
- Avoid cold, dry, and overly processed foods, which increase Vata.
- Practice Abhyanga (self-oil massage) with sesame oil to calm nerves and ground the body.
4. Mind-Body Connection
- Pica may also be linked to emotional voids or subconscious fears. Ayurveda encourages:
- Meditation and Garbh Sanskar music for calming the mind.
- Positive affirmations and spiritual support.
- Satsang (positive association) to maintain a joyful mental state.
5. Ayurvedic Caution
- Never self-medicate with bhasmas or herbs during pregnancy.
- Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic doctor.
- Pica can sometimes be serious—if cravings involve toxic substances, seek urgent help.
Conclusion
Recognizing and addressing pica during pregnancy is crucial for maternal and fetal well-being. From its definition as the consumption of non-food substances to understanding its prevalence and underlying causes, awareness is the first step toward management.
Whether triggered by nutritional deficiencies, cultural factors, or underlying psychological conditions, pica presents varying risks that should not be ignored. The diverse cravings—from ice and dirt to chalk and paper—each carry potential complications that require professional attention.
Management strategies focus on addressing nutritional deficiencies, implementing behavioral therapies, and providing psychological support. For those experiencing unusual cravings, consulting healthcare providers promptly is essential, particularly if the behavior persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
With proper diagnosis, treatment, and support, pica during pregnancy can be effectively managed, ensuring the health and safety of both mother and baby throughout this critical period.
FAQ’s
Treating pica starts with identifying nutritional deficiencies—especially iron or zinc. Blood tests help guide supplements. Counseling or behavior therapy also helps if it’s habit-driven. Avoiding triggers and including balanced meals with healthy snacks reduces cravings safely.
Craving chalk may be a sign of iron deficiency or mineral imbalance, common during pregnancy. It’s linked to pica, a condition where non-food items feel appealing. It’s important to avoid eating chalk and consult your doctor for nutritional tests and safe alternatives.
Eat small, frequent meals with a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated and get enough sleep. Cravings often reduce when your body gets what it truly needs. Mindful eating, distraction techniques, and prenatal supplements also help manage intense urges.
Pica during pregnancy may happen due to nutritional deficiencies—commonly iron, zinc, or calcium. Hormonal changes, stress, or cultural habits can also play a role. It’s your body’s unusual way of asking for nutrients, but eating non-foods is unsafe and needs medical attention.
Treat the root cause—usually nutritional deficiency—through blood tests and proper supplements. Psychological support or behavioral therapy may also help, especially if pica is emotionally driven. Stay away from non-food triggers and opt for healthier distractions like fruit, nuts, or herbal teas.
The most common cause of pica is a deficiency in iron, zinc, or other essential nutrients. Hormonal shifts, stress, or even past trauma can also play a role. During pregnancy, the body’s increased nutritional demand often makes such unusual cravings more likely.
Drinking more water in pregnancy is usually healthy—it supports blood flow, amniotic fluid, and digestion. But if you’re retaining water or swelling unusually, it may signal an issue like preeclampsia. Always consult your doctor if water intake or retention feels abnormal.
The riskiest cravings are for non-food items like mud, chalk, soap, or ash—known as pica. They can harm both mother and baby. Even too much sugar, caffeine, or processed junk can increase risks. It’s important to manage such cravings with safer choices.
Cravings themselves don’t harm the baby, but what you eat does. Giving in to unhealthy or non-food cravings (like in pica) can cause nutritional imbalance or complications. Eating nourishing foods supports your baby’s healthy growth and brain development.
Great pregnancy snacks include fruits, nuts, yogurt, roasted makhana, whole grain crackers, boiled eggs, or veggie sticks with hummus. They’re rich in nutrients, help control cravings, and support both mom and baby’s health. Choose snacks that are fresh, light, and protein-rich.
Pregnancy cravings typically begin in the first trimester, around week 6 to 8, but they can vary. They often peak during the second trimester and fade later. Cravings can be due to hormonal shifts and changes in taste or smell sensitivity.
Yes, eating chalk can be harmful. It may cause constipation, nutrient absorption issues, and even lead to toxic buildup. Chalk isn’t digestible and may affect both your and your baby’s health. If you crave it, seek medical advice immediately.
Pregnancy cravings vary widely—some crave pickles with ice cream or soap-scented items. The weirdest ones fall under pica, like eating mud, chalk, laundry starch, or clay. While strange cravings are common, eating non-food items is unsafe and needs attention.
Start by consulting a doctor to check for iron or zinc deficiency. Taking prescribed supplements, eating balanced meals, and avoiding pica triggers helps. Behavioral therapy can also be useful. Cravings reduce once your body is nutritionally satisfied and stress is managed.
Babies get all their nutrients from the mother through the placenta. They don’t feel hunger the same way we do. But if the mother’s nutrition is poor, the baby may receive fewer nutrients, which can affect growth. Hence, regular meals are crucial.
Dr. Seema Gupta, BAMS, MD (Naturopathy) is an Ex-House Physician in Gynecology and Obstetrics who is Advanced Certified in Diet and Nutrition. with over 27 years of experience in Women’s Health, Ayurveda, Naturopathy, and Diet, she has empowered 70,000+ patients to achieve natural healing. Her expertise in Gynecology and Obstetrics ensures personalized, science-backed advice.