Loss of appetite while pregnant

Pregnancy can bring nausea, vomiting, reflux, changed taste, constipation, tiredness, and sensitivity to smells. These symptoms can make food less appealing, especially early in pregnancy. Appetite loss may also occur with an infection or digestive illness, including COVID-19, influenza, gastritis, or gastroenteritis. Depression can affect eating as well. The pattern, severity, fluid intake, and stage of pregnancy help a clinician decide what support is appropriate.

Try plain crackers, toast, rice, potatoes, bananas, yoghurt, soup, eggs, or other foods that feel manageable. Cold foods may be easier when cooking smells trigger nausea. Take small bites throughout the day and keep a snack beside your bed or in your bag. Sip water or another pregnancy-appropriate drink often. Continue prenatal supplements as advised, but ask your maternity clinician if they worsen nausea or if you cannot keep them down. Do not start herbal products or medicines without checking first.

Contact your maternity team promptly if vomiting prevents fluids, urine becomes very dark or infrequent, you feel dizzy or faint, or you are losing weight. Urgent assessment is needed for severe abdominal pain, fever, blood in vomit, confusion, or inability to keep any fluid down. Also mention persistent appetite loss even without vomiting.

Ask which drinks and foods suit your symptoms, whether an anti-sickness treatment is appropriate, how to take supplements, and how to monitor hydration and pregnancy wellbeing. Bring a record of vomiting, fluids, foods, urine, and any weight change.