I’m Expecting — And I’m Craving More Than Just Food

Pregnancy often brings about unusual cravings, and it’s not limited to just food. If you haven’t experienced this phenomenon yourself, you likely know someone who has. Ice cream paired with pickles, anyone? But what about desiring other sensations during pregnancy? Yes, I’m talking about cravings beyond food.

As I ventured into my current pregnancy, I discovered some surprising cravings I hadn’t anticipated. One of the most peculiar changes has been my heightened sense of smell. During pregnancy, many women notice that their senses become more acute, thanks to rising levels of estrogen and other hormones. For some, it manifests as a distaste for certain odors, while for others, it might mean an unexpected fondness for them.

I’m on my fourth pregnancy, so I’m somewhat accustomed to these strange sensory shifts. However, this time around, it has become particularly bizarre. For instance, I’ve developed a craving for the smell of gasoline. Yes, you read that correctly.

Around the midpoint of my second trimester, I realized that my sense of smell had transformed. Not only was it intensified, but I also found pleasure in scents that would typically be considered unpleasant, like wet paint, cleaning products, and yes, gasoline.

My partner often works on various projects in our garage. Even when he isn’t actively busy, the familiar aromas of sawdust, oil, and metal linger in the air. While I used to be indifferent to these smells, my pregnancy has changed that. The brief walk through the breezeway to grab my shoes has taken on a strangely comforting significance.

The gasoline smell hit me when my partner started an overhaul on our tractor. Every time I entered the garage, the scent enveloped me, and I found myself enjoying it deeply.

What’s Going On With My Senses?

The term for craving certain smells is called desiderosmia. Interestingly, it is often linked to pica, a condition where individuals crave non-nutritive substances. While pica is more common in children, pregnant women can experience it too. The causes of these cravings remain unclear, but many doctors believe they may relate to nutritional deficiencies, such as anemia. If you mention your cravings to your doctor, they may run tests to check your blood levels. But if everything seems normal, as in my case, taking iron supplements might not be effective.

So, what are common cravings associated with pica or desiderosmia? Those who experience pica might crave items like soap, dirt, chalk, or even cigarette ash. It’s crucial not to ingest these things, whether pregnant or not. If you’ve felt compelled to indulge in such urges, please consult a healthcare professional.

On the other hand, someone experiencing desiderosmia might find themselves drawn to the scents of substances like nail polish, gasoline, or bleach. Inhaling these items can be harmful to both you and your baby, so it’s best to avoid them.

You’re not alone in these unusual cravings! Both pica and desiderosmia are more common during pregnancy than many realize. Just ensure you discuss any strange cravings with your healthcare provider, who can offer guidance, tests, or even a pep talk. Trust me, expressing a desire to munch on clay isn’t the most unusual thing your doctor has encountered.

For more insights, check out this blog post about similar experiences at Home Insemination Kit. If you’re looking for resources on pregnancy, the March of Dimes offers excellent information. Also, for comprehensive knowledge on self-insemination, visit Make a Mom.

Summary

Pregnancy can lead to unexpected cravings, not just for food but also for smells. This phenomenon includes heightened olfactory senses, resulting in desires for unusual scents like gasoline. Conditions such as pica and desiderosmia may explain these cravings, and it’s essential to discuss them with a healthcare professional.

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