artificial insemination syringe
Weird food combinations and unusual cravings are quite common during pregnancy. If you haven’t faced any yourself, you’ve likely heard tales from friends or family. How about ice cream paired with pickles?
But cravings during pregnancy can extend beyond just food. Yes, I’m talking about other things entirely. There are some surprising cravings that I never knew existed until I started experiencing them myself.
What’s Going On With My Sense of Smell?
When you become pregnant, your senses often become more acute. This is thanks to rising estrogen and other hormonal levels. Sometimes these changes are minor; other times, they’re more pronounced. If the scent of cooking ground beef suddenly makes you queasy, rest assured — you’re not alone.
As I embark on my fourth pregnancy, I’m accustomed to the strange shifts in my senses. Still, I must say, things have taken a peculiar turn lately.
You might ask, how so? Well… I find myself craving the smell of gasoline. Yes, you read that right.
Around the middle of my second trimester, I noticed a shift in my olfactory perception. Not only did my sense of smell intensify, but I also began to enjoy scents I wouldn’t typically find appealing: wet paint, cleaning supplies, cigarette smoke… and yes, gasoline.
My partner often has various projects happening in the garage. Even when he’s not busy, the aromas of sawdust, grease, and metal linger in the breezeway connecting our garage to the house. These scents have never bothered me before; they were just part of my daily environment.
Initially, I shrugged off my heightened sense of smell, knowing it was a normal part of pregnancy. But gradually, I began to appreciate the scents between our home and garage. The brief moments spent walking through the breezeway to grab a pair of shoes became oddly enjoyable.
Then came the gasoline craving. My partner started a major project on our tractor, and every time I entered the garage, the scent of gas enveloped me. And. I. Loved. It.
So, what’s really happening to me?
Craving certain smells, or having a desire for olfaction, is known as desiderosmia. Yes, there’s a term for it.
Desiderosmia is often associated with pica, which involves craving non-nutritive substances. While pica is more common in children, pregnant women experience it too. The reasons behind pica and desiderosmia remain unclear, but many doctors believe it could be linked to nutrient deficiencies like anemia. Typically, if you discuss it with your healthcare provider, they may conduct blood tests. If your results turn out fine (like mine), then taking an iron supplement may not be the solution.
But there’s no need to panic! These cravings aren’t usually harmful unless you act on them.
So, what are common cravings associated with pica or desiderosmia?
Those experiencing pica might crave items like:
- Soap
- Clay
- Sand
- Dirt
- Chalk
- Cigarette butts or ash
- Paint
- Glue
- Mothballs
- Stones
It’s safe to say that ingesting these items is not advisable, whether pregnant or not. If you feel tempted, reach out to a healthcare professional.
On the other hand, those with desiderosmia might crave the scent of items such as:
- Cigarette ash
- Rubbing alcohol
- Nail polish
- Gasoline
- Chalk
- Leather
- Bleach or other chemicals
- Laundry detergent
- Mothballs
- Dirt
Again, these substances should not be ingested, and inhaling them can pose risks to you and your baby!
No need to feel crazy, right?
Right! Both pica and desiderosmia are more common in pregnancy than you might think! Just ensure you mention any unusual cravings to your doctor, and they can provide guidance. Blood tests, vitamins, and consultations are all part of their support! Trust me, expressing a desire to eat clay is far from the strangest thing they hear.
Want to explore more? Check out this post on selfies for more engagement. For additional insights, visit Make a Mom for expert opinions on fertility. Another excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination is Cleveland Clinic’s podcast.
Search Queries:
- Pregnancy cravings
- Desiderosmia in pregnancy
- Pica symptoms
- Heightened sense of smell during pregnancy
- Managing pregnancy cravings
In summary, pregnancy can lead to some unexpected cravings, including the desire for certain smells. While these cravings may seem unusual, they are not uncommon and should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Remember to prioritize your health and well-being during this unique journey.