# What should I do if I have cravings for non-food items (pica) during pregnancy? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/pica-cravings-during-pregnancy-what-to-do Language: en Category: pregnancy Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.489Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.489Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/pica-cravings-during-pregnancy-what-to-do If you are pregnant and craving non-food items such as dirt, clay, laundry starch, paint chips, or ice, this condition is known as "pica" [\[3\]](). It is essential to inform your doctor immediately if you are experiencing these intense cravings, as they may indicate a deficiency in certain nutrients in your body [\[2\]](). Your doctor can help identify the underlying cause of these cravings and provide appropriate guidance to ensure you and your baby receive proper nutrition [\[2\]](). It is important not to attempt to consume these non-food items, as they can be harmful to you and your baby [\[2\]](). ## Understanding the Causes of Pica During Pregnancy Although the exact cause of pica during pregnancy is not fully understood, one potential explanation is a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as iron and zinc [\[4\]](). Your body needs more iron during pregnancy to support increased blood volume and fetal growth [\[1\]](). Not getting enough iron may lead to these strange cravings [\[3\]](). In addition to nutrient deficiencies, there may be other factors associated with pica, such as hormonal changes. Therefore, a comprehensive medical evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. ## Diagnosis and Treatment of Pica When you inform your doctor about cravings for non-food items, they will perform blood tests to check your iron levels and any potential deficiency in other nutrients, such as zinc [\[4\]](). Blood tests can also help detect anemia [\[4\]](). If a nutrient deficiency is identified, your doctor may recommend taking appropriate supplements [\[2\]](). It is important to take recommended supplements only under medical supervision, as very high levels of some vitamins, such as vitamin A, can be harmful and cause birth defects [\[1\]](). Treatment may also include nutritional counseling to ensure you follow a balanced diet rich in the essential nutrients for you and your fetus. You can visit [Balanced Nutrition for Pregnant Women (Arabic)]() for additional information about healthy nutrition during pregnancy. ## Tips for Managing Pica Cravings - **Talk to your doctor:** The first and most important step is to report any intense cravings for non-food items to your doctor or healthcare provider immediately [\[2\]](). - **Follow a healthy eating plan:** Focus on a balanced diet rich in iron and other nutrients. Good sources of iron include lean red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, and leafy green vegetables [\[1\]](). - **Avoid non-food items:** Resist the urge to consume any non-food materials, as they can be dangerous and cause health problems for you and your fetus [\[2\]](). - **Psychological support:** If you find it difficult to cope with these cravings, psychological support may be helpful. ## The Importance of Proper Nutrition During Pregnancy Proper nutrition is essential for your health and your baby's health throughout pregnancy [\[1\]](). You need higher amounts of many important nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and protein [\[1\]](). Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects, while iron supports the baby's brain development and increases your blood volume [\[1\]](). Calcium and vitamin D contribute to building strong bones and teeth for your baby [\[1\]](). Eating healthy, nutrient-dense foods and avoiding empty-calorie foods ensures that you and your fetus get what you need for healthy growth and development [\[1\]](). ## Medical references - [Eating right during pregnancy]() - [Pregnancy and Nutrition]() - [Health Tips for Pregnant Women]() - [Pica: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/pica-cravings-during-pregnancy-what-to-do#answer