Pregnancy Can Sometimes Bring a Metallic Taste to Your Mouth

One of the first signs I noticed during my pregnancy was an unusual debate with my partner about broccoli. We had recently enjoyed some sautéed garlic broccoli from our favorite Italian restaurant, but when I reheated it a few days later, I was convinced it had gone bad.

Despite looking perfectly fine, the broccoli tasted rancid, bitter, and oddly metallic. “What’s wrong with this broccoli?” I exclaimed to my partner, nearly gagging as I prepared to toss it in the trash. He insisted it was fine after taking a bite, leaving us both perplexed about whose taste buds were malfunctioning. I eventually forgot about this broccoli fiasco until I received a positive pregnancy test a week later.

It turns out my partner was likely correct; the broccoli was okay. My sense of taste, however, was altered due to pregnancy hormones. A metallic taste and the sensation that food had gone bad was one of my earliest signs during both of my pregnancies—and I’m certainly not alone in this experience.

When Everything Tastes Metallic, It Might Be Dysgeusia

Many expectant mothers find that their taste (and smell) can become quite erratic in early pregnancy. This phenomenon is often attributed to pregnancy hormones that can lead to a condition known as dysgeusia, which alters your sense of taste. This change can result in foods tasting more bitter, metallic, or sour.

Dysgeusia isn’t exclusive to pregnancy. According to The Cleveland Clinic, it can also stem from poor oral hygiene, infections, allergies, exposure to chemicals, and certain medications or vitamins. Interestingly, COVID-19 can also cause similar taste alterations, leading to that familiar metallic taste.

Additionally, prenatal vitamins can sometimes contribute to a metallic or bitter flavor in the mouth. I personally struggled with the ones I was prescribed because they made me feel nauseous. It’s essential to ensure you’re still getting vital nutrients like folic acid, so consult your healthcare provider for alternatives if your current vitamins are unpalatable.

Research published in the journal Chemical Senses found that 76% of pregnant individuals experience changes in taste and smell. About 26% reported abnormal tastes, such as increased bitterness, and many noticed a reduced sensitivity to salt (which might explain the cravings for salty foods). Interestingly, the study also revealed that 14% of pregnant individuals experienced “phantom smells,” which I can relate to—I distinctly remember smelling odors that weren’t present, like a strange perfume or gas from the stove.

What Can You Do About Dysgeusia During Pregnancy?

Fortunately, dysgeusia, like morning sickness, often fades after the first trimester. However, some may experience it for longer. Since this issue is primarily driven by hormones, your options are limited, but if it becomes bothersome, there are strategies you can try to lessen the metallic taste.

The American Pregnancy Association suggests brushing your teeth more frequently, including your tongue, and using minty mouthwash or breath mints. You could also rinse your mouth with a mixture of ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon baking soda in warm water—though that might sound unappealing to some.

Other recommendations include drinking fruit juices, consuming citrus fruits, or enjoying foods marinated in vinegar. I found myself craving citrus fruits during pregnancy, perhaps to counteract that bitter taste. And we all know that pickles are a pregnancy staple!

If you suspect your prenatal vitamins are contributing to the metallic taste, consider discussing alternative options with your healthcare provider. If the metallic taste is particularly bothersome or affecting your ability to eat, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a doctor or midwife—they’re familiar with this common issue and can offer valuable insights.

Dysgeusia and the various discomforts of early pregnancy can be quite challenging, but they typically subside. Hang in there; relief is usually on the way!

For more insights, check out this related blog post on Home Insemination Kit, and for helpful information on fertility supplements, visit Make a Mom. If you’re seeking comprehensive resources on pregnancy and home insemination, Kindbody is a great place to start.

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Summary:

Pregnancy can lead to unexpected changes in taste, including a metallic flavor and the perception that foods have spoiled. This condition, known as dysgeusia, is commonly linked to hormonal shifts during pregnancy. While it usually resolves after the first trimester, there are ways to manage the symptoms, such as improving oral hygiene and adjusting dietary choices. If the taste changes are severe, consulting a healthcare provider is advised.