Metallic taste and extra saliva in pregnancy: causes and what can help

Does everything taste like a coin, even a glass of water? Or does saliva keep building up? Changes in taste and extra saliva during pregnancy are, for most people, temporary and harmless.

Why does a metallic taste happen?

Doctors call this dysgeusia. Changing hormone levels in pregnancy can alter taste and smell. It often starts in the first trimester and eases in the following weeks. Sometimes vitamin and mineral supplements can leave a metallic taste; if you notice this, do not stop them on your own, but ask your doctor or pharmacist. Gum problems and oral hygiene can also affect taste; see the guide article on dental health in pregnancy for more.

Extra saliva

Some pregnant people, especially when nausea is strong, find their mouth filling with saliva. It is called ptyalism. The exact cause is not fully understood; it may be linked to nausea and difficulty swallowing. It is usually harmless, though annoying, and in most people it fades as pregnancy goes on. If you have nausea and vomiting, the article on morning sickness may also help.

8 tips that may help

1. Brush your teeth, gums and tongue twice a day with a soft brush.
2. Rinse your mouth with water after meals or whenever you feel unwell.
3. Rinsing with salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) may help balance the taste.
4. Sour flavours such as lemon, pomegranate syrup or pickle juice can cover the metallic taste.
5. Sugar-free gum or mints may make swallowing and taste easier.
6. Plastic or wooden cutlery can reduce the metal taste.
7. Sip water often through the day; a moist mouth feels better.
8. Avoid heavy, strongly scented dishes; cold or room-temperature foods have less taste and smell.

Why mouth care matters

Gums can become tender and bleed easily in pregnancy. Nausea and vomiting leave acid in the mouth. After vomiting, rinsing with water and waiting about half an hour before brushing may help protect tooth enamel. Regular dental check-ups are also recommended in pregnancy.

Eating and daily routine

A metallic taste can reduce appetite and make eating harder. At such times, turning to foods with fresher, more distinct flavours, such as fruit, yoghurt, cold drinks or water with lemon, can make it easier. Splitting meals into small portions and trying to get enough protein through the day also helps. Rinsing the mouth before eating freshens the taste. If the symptoms stop you from eating, share this with your doctor.

When to contact your doctor

• The metallic taste is very strong, lasts for weeks or stops you from eating
• Excess saliva makes it hard to swallow, talk, eat or drink enough
• You have constant vomiting, weight loss or dark urine
• Gum swelling, pain or bleeding goes on for long
• You notice mouth sores, swelling or foul-smelling discharge
• For sudden facial swelling or difficulty breathing, call 112 (in Turkey) or your local emergency number

Frequently asked questions

Can the metallic taste harm my baby? It is usually a temporary symptom that does not harm the baby; still, tell your doctor if it persists.

When does extra saliva go away? In most people it eases later in pregnancy or when nausea settles.

Do I need a special product for mouth care? Usually not; fluoride toothpaste, a soft brush and regular rinsing are enough for most people. If your gums cause trouble, see your dentist and be sure to mention that you are pregnant.

Although these symptoms are annoying, they are mostly temporary; this article is for information, and your doctor’s advice is what counts for your situation.