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Published on: 7/14/2026

Do food cravings differ when pregnant with a girl?

Do food cravings differ when carrying a girl? Current research does not show clear evidence that cravings differ based on your baby's sex. However, some studies suggest that pregnancy hormones may influence taste preferences and cravings in various ways, regardless of whether you're carrying a girl or boy.

Cravings are a normal part of pregnancy for many people, but sudden or unusual changes in appetite, taste, or food aversions can sometimes signal other underlying factors worth understanding—such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal shifts, or medical conditions. If you're curious about what your symptoms might mean, take a free, instant, online symptom check to gain personalized insight and clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

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Explanation

Many pregnant women notice changes in their food preferences and cravings. Some research has looked at how hormones during pregnancy affect taste and food intake, noting that these hormones can change your likes and dislikes. There is some thought that the hormones might vary a little when you are carrying a girl, potentially affecting your cravings. However, the studies so far have not found strong or consistent differences in food cravings based on whether you are pregnant with a girl or a boy. Your cravings can be influenced by many factors, including your diet, lifestyle, and even what you're used to eating. In short, while it is interesting to consider if carrying a girl might change your food cravings, the evidence does not prove a major difference. If you have any concerns about your diet or cravings during pregnancy, it's always helpful to check your symptoms with a free AI symptom checker or talk with your healthcare provider. They can give you advice that is right for your needs while you and your baby stay healthy.

(References)

  • Faas MM, Melgert BN, de Vos P. A Brief Review on How Pregnancy and Sex Hormones Interfere with Taste and Food Intake. Chemosens Percept. 2010 Mar;3(1):51-56. doi: 10.1007/s12078-009-9061-5. Epub 2009 Nov 4. PMID: 20352054; PMCID: PMC2844535.

  • Al-Mehaisen LM, Al-Husban NA, Matalka AI, Al-Kuran OA. Is there a relationship between children's behaviour and food cravings during pregnancy? J Taibah Univ Med Sci. 2018 Oct 30;13(6):547-551. doi: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2018.09.004. PMID: 31435376; PMCID: PMC6694992.

  • Kloub SM, Banihani SA. Exploring associations between pregnancy cravings and sociodemographic, lifestyle and health factors: insights from a cross-sectional population study in Jordan. BMJ Open. 2024 Mar 5;14(3):e078082. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078082. PMID: 38448075; PMCID: PMC10916096.

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