Pregnancy is when you may come across many myths and old wives' tales, often shared by well-meaning friends and family or found on social media. These myths can lead to confusion and unnecessary worry among expectant mothers. In this article, we'll explore and demystify six common pregnancy myths with insights from the world of health science.
Myth 1: Heartburn Predicts Baby's Hair
One widely held belief suggests that experiencing heartburn during pregnancy indicates that your baby will have a full head of hair. While it's a charming idea, no scientific proof supports this claim. Heartburn is more likely related to pregnancy hormones influencing hair growth and muscle relaxation, leading to acid reflux.
Myth 2: Predicting Baby's Gender
Various fun techniques, from scrutinizing a pregnant woman's appearance to dangling a wedding ring over her belly, are often used to predict a baby's gender. However, none of these methods are reliable. The most accurate gender determination methods involve medical procedures like chorionic villus sampling, amniocentesis, or non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT).
Myth 3: Eating for Two
Pregnant women indeed require extra nutrients but don't need to double their food intake. Overeating can harm both mother and baby, especially if it involves empty-calorie foods. Caloric needs increase gradually during pregnancy:
- First trimester: No additional calories needed.
- Second trimester: Add around 340 extra calories per day.
- Third trimester: Increase daily intake by approximately 540 calories.
Myth 4: No Sex During Pregnancy
Sex during pregnancy is typically safe and doesn't increase the risk of pregnancy complications. However, there are exceptions, such as when heavy bleeding occurs or when the amniotic fluid has broken. Women with specific risk factors, like placental issues or cervical insufficiency, should consult their doctor.
Myth 5: Eating Certain Foods Causes Baby Allergies
Pregnant women can consume foods often considered allergenic unless they have allergies. The baby won't develop allergies to these foods while in the womb. Nevertheless, pregnant women should avoid certain foods, such as raw meat and seafood, for safety reasons.
Myth 6: No Exercise During Pregnancy
Pregnant women are encouraged to engage in light to moderate-intensity exercises, as long as they are safe for expectant mothers and not done excessively. Women who weren't regularly active before pregnancy should consult their obstetrician before starting any exercise regimen.
Many pregnancy myths still exist, but they should be examined critically. If you have questions about pregnancy, consult your obstetrician to ensure a safe and smooth journey until your delivery day.
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Source:
Fletcher, J. & Nwadike, V. R. (2019). 14 myths about pregnancy. MedicalNewsToday. [online]. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327231