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Pica in a rural obstetric population
J C Smulian1, S Motiwala, R K Sigman
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Center, Columbus, Ga, USA.
Southern Medical Journal
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Pica, the practice of eating non-food items during pregnancy, was found in 14.4% of rural women. This condition often links to childhood pica and may pose risks for environmental toxin exposure.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics
- Maternal Health
- Nutritional Psychology
Background:
- Pica incidence during pregnancy varies widely (0%–68%) by population.
- Understanding pica in rural obstetric settings is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define characteristics and influencing factors of pica in a rural pregnant population.
- To investigate the prevalence of pica and its association with anemia.
Main Methods:
- A study group of 125 pregnant women was interviewed at their initial antenatal visit.
- Data collected included attitudes, behaviors, and history related to pica practices.
- Statistical analyses (Chi-square, t tests) were used to compare groups.
Main Results:
- Pica was identified in 18 (14.4%) participants.
- No significant differences in age, race, weight, or anemia were found between pica and non-pica groups.
- Commonly ingested substances included dirt, ice, cornstarch, laundry starch, soap, ashes, chalk, paint, and burnt matches.
Conclusions:
- Pica in pregnancy is often associated with childhood and nonpregnant pica practices.
- Patients with pica may have a higher risk of lead or other environmental toxin exposures.
- Further research into the etiology and risks associated with pica is warranted.