Metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy

Metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful phases in a woman’s life. It is the time when she feels a new life breeding inside her bringing her utmost joy and ecstasy. [hana-code-insert name=’rectangle’ /]During this phase apart from the sheer joy she experiences, she also feels little discomforts. These problems are a part of the whole package and are absolutely normal if one feels so. Among the many little discomforts that a woman feels in early pregnancy is the metallic taste in mouth. The metallic taste in mouth gives sour, bitter or acidic taste in mouth. This problem is scientifically known as dysgeusia. It is mostly experienced between the gaps in meals. The metallic taste in mouth can also lead to loss of appetite or nausea. Although the problem isn’t serious but a treatment for this problem would ensure healthy eating habits and a good appetite.

Causes behind metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy

There can be many reasons why a woman would suffer from metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy. Although the exact cause behind this problem has not been ascertained but it is mostly blamed on the fast production of hormones in the body. The hormone known as oestrogen gets produced rapid speed during early pregnancy. This hormone governs the sense of taste and smell. Due to the fast production of oestrogen the sense of taste and smell get imbalanced. This leads to the metallic taste in mouth.

Another reason for metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy is the intake of antibiotics and pre-natal vitamin medication. The folic acid medications are the prime reason behind the metallic taste in mouth.

Effects of metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy

This problem does not cause alarming health issues to the expecting mother. One side effect of this problem could be lack of appetite due to the sour or bitter taste in mouth. The unpleasant taste kills the desire of having food which could result in weight reduction or health dropping issues. This can be unhealthy for both mother and the baby. Another effect of the metallic taste in mouth could be nausea. Nausea brings the unpleasant sensation of vomiting and dizziness which could be discomforting for the would-be mother. Sometimes the metallic taste is coupled with bad breath too. This too is an unpleasant feeling. Other than these there are no major side effects of the metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy.

Treatments for the metallic taste in mouth in early pregnancy

The treatments for this problem are given below-

  • Increasing water intake to keep the mouth wet and curb the metallic taste
  • Having fresh citrus fruit juices like lemon juice, orange juice etc.
  • Consuming vinegar marinated food
  • Brushing teeth every time you consume a meal
  • Maintaining good oral hygiene
  • Gargling with salty water
  • Using mint based mouth washes to rinse mouth.
  • Chewing mint leaves and mouth fresheners
  • Rinsing mouth with a decoction of baking soda and water

Please note that before following any of the above mentioned treatments kindly consult your gynaecologist.