Pregnancy Cravings…on the Wild Side

Pregnancy cravings are legendary. 

Pickles and ice cream? Totally normal. 

Peanut butter on a burger? Hey, no judgment. 

Why Crazy Cravings?

If you’ve ever wondered why pregnancy cravings can feel so strong, hormones are usually the reason. During pregnancy, hormones, including hCG, progesterone and estrogen rise quickly, making your senses of taste and smell much more sensitive. Suddenly, certain foods smell amazing — or absolutely unbearable.

These hormonal shifts can also trigger cravings for sweet, salty or higher-calorie foods. Sometimes it’s your body looking for extra energy, trying to ease nausea or even signaling that you might need more nutrients, such as iron or calcium. In other words, those cravings aren’t random — they’re often your body’s way of adjusting to the big job of growing a baby.

When to Worry 

But if you suddenly find yourself eyeing a scoop of dirt, a handful of ice or wondering if chalk might make a nice snack… you may be experiencing something called pica.

Pica is the craving for non-food items like ice, chalk, dirt, ashes, starch, soap — and yes, even matches. While it’s not the most common pregnancy symptom, it’s also not as unusual as you might think. And, if it happens to you, don’t panic — and definitely don’t be embarrassed. Doctors see this more often than you’d imagine, and the sooner you mention it, the sooner we can help.

Why Pica is Risky

These cravings can come with some real health risks. Eating non-food items can lead to intestinal blockages, poor nutrition, exposure to toxins or parasites and even extra weight gain (cornstarch may seem harmless, but it’s basically empty calories). Clay or dirt can collect in the digestive system, making it difficult — or sometimes impossible — for your body to pass them. In rare cases, larger objects could even damage the intestines. Because some of these materials contain chemicals or contaminants, they can affect both you and your baby.

So why does this happen? Often, it’s linked to iron deficiency, which is why your doctor will likely check your iron levels. If they’re low, you might need an iron supplement or infusion to help get things back on track. Your provider may also recommend boosting iron-rich and protein-packed foods in your diet — along with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Sometimes adding vitamin C between meals can help your body absorb iron more effectively. In certain cases, a dietitian or therapist may also help address the cravings.

Why This Happens

The exact cause of pica isn’t completely understood. It may be related to nutritional deficiencies, stress, cultural habits, or learned behaviors. What we do know is this: if you’re craving something that isn’t actually food, it’s worth talking about.

And while it might be tempting to joke that “the baby must want it,” babies don’t usually request a side of chalk. So, if your cravings start getting a little… unconventional, bring it up with your doctor. They’ll help figure out what’s going on and get you — and your snack choices — back on a healthier track.