Prevalence of pica among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic in a tertiary facility in Nigeria

One of the unusual symptoms observed among pregnant women is the aversion for non-food substances like sand, clay and ice. Pica is a form of eating disorder characterised by these symptoms. It occurs commonly in children and among pregnant women. This study aims to determine the prevalence and associated factors for Pica among booked patients in our institution. A prospective study was conducted among pregnant women at booking aged 11-45 years at the ATB University teaching Hospital Bauchi between 1st February to 31st of July 2019. All pregnant women who gave their consent were interviewed using a pretested questionnaire. The biodata, risk factors for Pica, occurrence in childhood and other social habits were recorded. The result showed a prevalence rate of pica at 38.9% with a craving for ice (18.7%), sand (14.7%) and others (55.11%). Pica was observed more in the day time (afternoon and evening) and most women having pica had a low level of education. Even though the prevalence of Pica appeared low in our environment, adequate counselling and appropriate treatment of women with this condition should be given more priority.