White Clay Consumption: Damaging To Women’s Health

C alabar chalk, commonly consu­ med by many pregnant women to ease nausea and morning sickness, has become a wides­ pread habit in the Cameroonian com­ munity. While many women believe it provides relief from pregnancy discom­ fort, health experts warn that excessive consumption of the clay may expose both mothers and unborn babies to se­ rious health risks. For Chantal Juel, a mother of two, what began as a harm­ less habit eventually turned into a life- changing experience. "I often expe­ rienced bloating and pain in my lower abdomen, but I thought it was normal, so I continued eating the clay. When I became pregnant, I frequently suffered from anaemia, severe abdominal pain and low blood levels. I went into labour earlier than expected and had to deliver both my babies through Caesarean sec­ tion". Despite the health complications she has suffered, Chantal says she still finds it difficult to stop consuming Ca­ labar chalk because it has become part of her daily life, and whenever she smells dust or dry soil, she develops an irresistible craving for the substance. Health professionals say such cases have prompted hospitals to strengthen awareness campaigns during antenatal consultations. Expectant mothers are increasingly being educated on the potential risks associated with consuming non-food substances. Regardless of the health concerns, vendors of this clay...