Before birth1 min readUpdated May 31, 2026
Pica in pregnancy: cravings for non-food items
What pica is, risks of eating clay, starch, or ice compulsively, and why medical evaluation matters.
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Bầu Ăn Gì? Team · References ACOG
What is pica?
Strong urges to eat non-food substances: clay, dirt, chalk, laundry starch, large amounts of ice.
Risks
Infection, toxicity, bowel blockage, and masking iron deficiency anemia.
What to do
- Tell your clinician honestly — no judgment helps care.
- Blood tests for iron and other deficiencies may be needed.
- Do not eat clay or starch products; seek safe substitutes and treatment.