Debunking Common Pregnancy Myths

Pregnancy myths abound, from eating for two to exercise dangers. Seek reliable advice—balanced diet, safe exercise, minimal caffeine, no alcohol crucial.

June 19, 2024
Debunking Common Pregnancy Myths

There are many dos and don'ts associated with being pregnant. Throughout her pregnancy, every expectant mother is given a dozen different pieces of advice. Advice about the mother's and the baby's well-being is given by friends and elders. While some of these statements have no scientific basis, others are useful for both. Pregnancy is the subject of numerous beliefs that have long governed women.

MYTH 1- You are eating for two

Among the most widespread fallacies regarding pregnancy is this one. The phrase "Eating for Two" is common but unreliable. Pregnant women are often advised to eat twice as much food as they will need for the unborn child. It's untrue. All of a  mother's energy and nutrition come from her diet. A pregnant lady should concentrate on creating healthy eating habits and only take in an extra 200 calories each day. You should try to consume a balanced diet of nutrient-rich foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and foods high in calcium since your baby needs these nutrients to grow and develop. 

MYTH 2-Exercising during pregnancy can hurt the baby

It is not accurate at all. Pregnant women are advised by doctors to exercise because it facilitates a smooth delivery. Engaging in physical activity does not raise your chance of low birth weight or miscarriage. Most pregnant women benefit from regular exercise. It can lessen the risk of gestational diabetes, lessen back discomfort, and enhance mood. It is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional in order to establish a safe fitness regimen and steer clear of high-risk activities.

MYTH 3- Pregnant women should not drink coffee

Another outdated misconception prevents pregnant women from drinking tea or coffee. A small amount of coffee won't ever be harmful to the unborn child. But you have to restrict how much caffeine you take in each day. Preterm birth or miscarriage are not linked to moderate caffeine consumption (200 mg or less per day), according to research. This is the equivalent of roughly twelve ounces of coffee. If you do decide to have a cup of coffee, it's crucial to keep your intake of tea, chocolate, and soft drinks to a minimum. 

MYTH 4- All Bleeding During the First Trimester Means a Miscarriage

While bleeding at any point in a pregnancy can be concerning and terrifying miscarriage is not necessarily the result of it. Actually, 20% to 40% of women experience vaginal bleeding during the first trimester, which is incredibly common. Even so, it's crucial to determine what's going on by speaking with your OB-GYN if you suffer any bleeding throughout pregnancy.

MYTH 5- Sex Isn’t Safe During Pregnancy

There are several myths associated with this one: "The infant will be aware! Preterm labor can result from sex! The foetus could get hurt by us! All in all, having sex while pregnant is quite safe. "It is normal to experience bleeding or cramps after sex unless your pregnancy is high risk."

MYTH 6- It’s Okay to Have a Drink

Never consume alcohol while expecting a child. There is no safe level or kind of alcohol to consume while pregnant; even modest consumption can cause issues for your unborn child that last a lifetime. These concerns, which include difficulties with coordination, focus, and learning, can be less evident than those brought on by binge drinking. Congenital impairments linked to alcohol use are completely avoidable. 

MYTH 7- Morning Sickness Only Happens in the Morning

Due to hormonal changes, nausea (and/or vomiting) can strike at any time of day during pregnancy. It's more common in the morning for most women, and after three months, things start to get better. But it's not the same for all women.