Pregnancy and pica

Pica is the practice of craving for substances with little or no nutritional value. Most addictions associated with pregnancy and pica are related to non-food substances such as dirt or chalk. The word pica is Latin for magpie, a bird known to eat just about anything. It is true that most women experience food cravings during pregnancy; however, most of these addictions are related to things like pickles and ice cream.

Pica is most commonly seen in children and occurs in approximately 25-30% of all children; pica in pregnant women is even rarer.

What causes pica during pregnancy?

The reason why some women develop picas cravings during pregnancy is not known for certain. The cause is currently unknown; however, according to experts, it may be due to an iron deficiency. Some believe that pica is an attempt by the body to obtain vitamins or minerals that are lacking in normal food intake.

Sometimes the craving for pica can be associated with an underlying physical or mental illness.

Normal pregnancy and pica

The most common substances consumed during pregnancy are mud, clay, and alkaline starch.

Other savory tastes include:

burnt matches
stones
charcoal
mothballs
ice
cornstarch
toothpaste
soap
sand
plaster
coffee grounds
baking soda
cigarette ashes

Are there any risks for the child?

Consuming non-nutritional substances is potentially harmful to you and your baby. Consuming non-nutritional substances can interfere with the absorption of nutrients from healthy foods and actually cause nutrient deficiencies. Picacism is also a concern because non-food items can contain toxic or parasitic ingredients.

Pica management

Do not panic ; it happens and it's not normal. The most important thing is to let your doctor know to make sure you have a complete understanding of the specific risks associated with your food cravings.

Here are some tips to help you deal with picas cravings: