Geophagy During Pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Review of Cultural Practices and Health Implications

Geophagy, the intentional consumption of soil and other earth materials, is a common practice among pregnant women in many parts of sub-Saharan Africa. This narrative review aimed to examine the cultural drivers, nutritional implications and health consequences of geophagy during pregnancy, as well as identify potential intervention strategies for mitigating associated risks. Literature retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar was synthesized to examine evidence on geophagy during pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa. The available evidence indicates that geophagy during pregnancy is influenced by a combination of cultural traditions, social norms, physiological changes and perceived health benefits. While the practice is often associated with attempts to alleviate pregnancy-related symptoms and address nutritional deficiencies, it may contribute to adverse maternal and foetal outcomes through reduced nutrient bioavailability, exposure to toxic elements and increased susceptibility to parasitic infections. Evidence from the reviewed studies also indicates associations between geophagy and maternal anaemia, neural tube defects, low birth weight and preterm birth. Despite these risks, routine screening and culturally appropriate counselling regarding geophagy remain inadequately incorporated into antenatal care services across many settings in sub-Saharan Africa. This review highlights the need for culturally sensitive public health interventions, improved maternal nutrition education and strengthened research efforts to better understand the determinants and health implications of geophagy during pregnancy. Integrating geophagy-related screening and counselling into maternal healthcare programmes may contribute to improved pregnancy outcomes and maternal well-being in the region.