Myths around pregnancy have existed since time immemorial. Whether it is talking about an eclipse harming the baby, or certain foods affecting the baby’s complexion, pregnancy myths are never-ending. But should you really believe in these statements? Not of course, unless these claims are backed by scientific evidence.
One of the most misleading and perpetuated pregnancy myths is that it’s unsafe for mothers to exercise during pregnancy. However, research suggests otherwise. It has been proven that moderate exercise during pregnancy can help you stay active and reduce the risk of complications. Unfortunately, these myths are everywhere and can cause feelings of anxiety in expecting mums. To ensure a happy and healthy pregnancy, we suggest you depend on scientific evidence rather than believing these claims.
Fact Or Fiction: The Most Widely Believed Pregnancy Myths
While there are some pregnancy myths that were ruled out completely a while ago, there are still some myths that have been doing the rounds for decades. In fact, we have even come to simply accept them as true, without even verifying them. Let’s look at the top nine widely-believed pregnancy myths and the truth behind them.
Myth 1: You Need To Eat For Two
No matter what your relative or friend says, you do not need to eat for two while pregnant. Yes, pregnancy does increase your daily calorific intake, but that is only by 350-400 calories. This means you can add two extra servings of fruit or veggie salads, or an extra roti with ghee, along with your regular meal plan. Do not feel the need to jump into the kind of food bandwagon that is suggested to you, just because there’s another life growing inside of you.
Myth 2: Certain Types Of Food Affect The Baby’s Complexion
This myth is completely baseless. The near and dear women in your life will try to remind you to have coconut water every day so that you give birth to a fair baby. They may even ask you to cut off your iron supplements as it can cause the baby’s skin to grow dark. But it will be great if you disregard their so-called “sound advice” completely. First of all, food has nothing to do with your baby’s complexion, and second, staying off iron supplements can adversely affect both your and your baby’s health.
Myth 3: Eat Ghee For Easy Labour And Delivery
Another well-known piece of advice from neighbourhood aunties is to consume plenty of ghee because apparently it helps lubricate the birth canal and makes labour easier. However, be informed that this claim is baseless and there is no scientific evidence to prove that ghee facilitates smooth labour and delivery. Consuming ghee in copious amounts will only increase your weight, which is unhealthy and causes complications.
Myth 4: No Sex During Pregnancy
Most doctors do suggest staying off sex for the first three months, but they are likely to give you a green signal during the second and third trimesters. Do not worry, it is safe to have intercourse during pregnancy, as long as your doctor says so. The fetus is protected by layers of tissues and will not be harmed during sex. So continue being intimate with your partner, unless your doc asks you otherwise.
Myth 5: Your Belly Position Can Determine The Baby’s Gender
If you have heard this statement from an aunty or relative of yours, do remember that there is 0% truth to it. The way your belly positions during pregnancy has nothing to do with the gender of the baby. In fact, each woman carries her baby differently. The belly position is only dependent upon the body type and hip measurements. The baby’s gender has most certainly nothing to do with it.
Myth 6: You Should Avoid Raising Your Arms Above The Head While Pregnant
This is yet another bizarre myth that claims that raising your arms above your head during pregnancy can cause the umbilical cord to get wrapped around the baby’s neck. The fact is that there is no study to support this statement. So be free to stretch as much as you want to, and also hang laundry when you feel like it.
Myth 7: Flying During Pregnancy Increases Complications
False again. Doctors agree that flying during pregnancy is safe unless you suffer from a serious complication or have an underlying health condition. You may worry that the radiation from body scanners and X-ray machines may harm your baby, but be informed that these radiations do not penetrate inside your body and therefore, cannot affect the baby. However, your doctor may ask you to refrain from flying during your third trimester, as there is a chance of you delivering en route.
Myth 8: You Should Stay Away From Seafood
Not true at all. In fact, fish contains essential nutrients and Omega-3 fatty acids which promote brain development. Eating lots of fish can give you smarter babies with higher IQs. So make sure to have at least 12 ounces of seafood a week and avoid fish that contain high levels of mercury.
Myth 9: Stress Is Bad for The Fetus
The moment anyone sees you a little stressed during pregnancy, they shower their concerns on you and talk about how stress can be harmful to your fetus. But recent studies have established that taking a moderate amount of stress can be good for the fetus. It accelerates the baby’s development and tones up their nervous system.
We hope you feel a little bit relieved with these pregnancy myths now debunked. While you may still come across these myths from time to time, make sure to take them lightly and only listen to the advice provided by your doctor. Wishing you a happy and healthy pregnancy.
Also Read: Best pregnancy test kits
