Pregnancy Cravings and Food Aversions: What’s Normal and When to Seek Help
Understand why pregnancy cravings and food aversions happen, how long they last, and when to consult your doctor.
In short: Cravings are a strong desire for certain foods, and aversions a strong dislike of a taste or smell. They usually begin between weeks 5 and 8 and ease after weeks 12–14, and are caused by hormonal changes and a sharper sense of taste and smell. They become a concern when they come with severe nausea and vomiting that cause weight loss or dehydration. Small frequent meals, water and rest help.
Cravings are a very common symptom during pregnancy, and if you’re experiencing them, you’re certainly not alone.
They refer to a strong desire for something (such as certain foods) or a strong aversion to something else.
They usually occur during the first trimester and tend to lessen in intensity as the pregnancy progresses.
Cravings are considered a normal change during pregnancy and are not a pathological condition, so there’s no need to worry if you notice them.
Pregnancy cravings timing:
- They typically begin between weeks 5 and 8 of pregnancy.
- They usually lessen or disappear after weeks 12 and 14 of pregnancy.
- Some women may experience them for a longer period.
Why do pregnancy cravings occur?
- Hormonal changes.
- Increased sensitivity of certain senses, such as taste and smell, which may make some foods unpalatable.
- Emotional and psychological changes that affect appetite.
- Nutritional deficiencies that affect the body’s dietary needs.
Types of cravings:
- Intense cravings for certain foods
- Intense aversion to certain foods
- Cravings aren’t limited to food; a heightened sense of smell during pregnancy can lead to aversions to certain people or places due to their scent.
Some women crave things that are not food, such as ice, clay, soil, chalk or starch (a condition called pica). Do not eat these, as they can contain harmful substances, and tell your doctor, because this can be a sign of iron deficiency anaemia, which is easy to test for and treat.
Is craving for food dangerous?
No, but it can become a concern if accompanied by severe nausea and vomiting leading to:
- Weight loss
- Signs of dehydration
- Dizziness and fainting
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to speak with your obstetrician so they can check on you and your baby’s wellbeing.
What are the recommendations for managing food cravings during pregnancy?
- Eat several small meals.
- Avoid foods that trigger nausea.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat salty snacks like crackers, but in moderation.
- Get enough rest.
If your cravings or aversions feel overwhelming, or if you’re experiencing persistent nausea and vomiting, Dr. Najeeb Layyous and his team are here to support you throughout your pregnancy journey with attentive, personalized care.
Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G
Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist
The finest doctor in Jordan — may God bless him and his whole medical team. A doctor in every sense of the word. I advise anyone planning a pregnancy to visit Dr. Najeeb Layyous. His manner is wonderful, always smiling, with the highest ethics; he gives every patient her due, and the patient’s comfort matters most to him. We had been to many doctors and none understood and treated my case except him. Special thanks to him and the whole team, and to Dina in particular — a lovely person. I recommend anyone considering IVF or pregnancy to visit his clinic.