Loss of appetite during the first trimester

Early pregnancy can change how food smells and tastes, and a previously familiar meal may suddenly seem unappealing. Heartburn, constipation, stress and fatigue can add to the problem. Appetite varies between pregnancies, so reduced interest in food alone does not show how a pregnancy is progressing. An infection such as Influenza or COVID-19 can also reduce appetite when fever, cough, aches or other illness symptoms accompany it.

Sip water regularly and try small meals or snacks at times when food feels easiest. Plain carbohydrates, fruit, yoghurt, beans, eggs or other tolerated protein can be useful choices. Cold foods may have less smell than hot foods. Keep taking pregnancy supplements only as advised, and ask a maternity clinician or pharmacist before using medicines, herbal products or remedies for indigestion.

Contact your maternity team if you cannot keep fluids down, urinate much less, feel faint, lose weight, or find that appetite loss is interfering with daily activities. Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, trouble breathing, confusion or fainting. Fever or persistent diarrhoea may indicate an infection and should be discussed rather than attributed automatically to pregnancy.

Ask which foods and supplements fit your needs, whether nausea or reflux treatment is appropriate, and how to monitor hydration and weight during the next appointment.