Why do I have a metallic taste in my mouth when pregnant?

Cleveland Clinic explains that taste changes in pregnancy are common and usually come from the surge in pregnancy hormones. The result is dysgeusia: a persistent metallic, sour or bitter taste, or foods that suddenly taste wrong. Many people also find their sense of smell is sharper, and the NHS lists both a metallic taste and sensitivity to smells among early pregnancy signs, along with tender breasts, needing to pee more often, cravings and mood changes.

A metallic taste alone cannot confirm pregnancy. A home pregnancy test is the way to find out.

It often appears in the first weeks, sometimes before a missed period is noticed. Cleveland Clinic notes it is typically worst in the first trimester and should fade as pregnancy progresses, and that pregnancy-related dysgeusia usually resolves after the first trimester. Some people notice a milder version on and off for longer. It often travels with nausea, so it may ease around the same time morning sickness does, which the NHS says usually clears up by weeks 16 to 20.

• Prenatal vitamins. Cleveland Clinic lists prenatal vitamins and iron supplements as common causes of a metallic taste. Ask your midwife or pharmacist about taking them with food or at a different time. Do not stop folic acid or prescribed iron without advice.
• Pregnancy rhinitis. Hormones can cause a stuffy nose and postnasal drip, which Cleveland Clinic notes can also bring a salty taste. It usually settles a few weeks after delivery.
• Reflux. Heartburn is common later in pregnancy and causes a sour or bitter taste. A pharmacist can advise which remedies are suitable in pregnancy.
• Gum changes. Gums can bleed more easily in pregnancy, and blood tastes metallic. Keep brushing gently and see a dentist if bleeding persists.

• Sip water through the day. Cleveland Clinic suggests ice chips if nausea makes drinking hard.
• Chew sugar-free gum or suck sugar-free mints to stimulate saliva.
• Rinse with a mild baking soda solution (half a teaspoon in warm water), which Cleveland Clinic suggests for unpleasant tastes and acidity.
• Brush your teeth and tongue gently. If brushing triggers gagging, a small-headed brush and brushing at a less queasy time of day can help.
• Notice which foods taste worst and work around them for now. Many people find cold foods and sharper flavors easier to tolerate.

The taste itself is not dangerous, but the things that travel with it can be. The NHS advises calling your midwife, GP or urgent care line if you have very dark pee or have not peed in more than 8 hours, cannot keep food or fluids down for 24 hours, feel very weak, dizzy or faint on standing, have tummy pain or a high temperature, vomit blood or are losing weight. Severe, prolonged vomiting can be hyperemesis gravidarum, which may need hospital treatment.

Gestational diabetes usually has no symptoms, but the NHS notes high blood sugar can cause increased thirst, peeing more, a dry mouth, tiredness and blurred vision. Mention these at your next appointment, as some overlap with normal pregnancy.