Pregnancy is a time of joy but can also be a time of anxiety and confusion. With so much information (and misinformation) out there, it’s hard to know what to believe and ignore. The average woman is exposed to various pregnancy myths at some point. These myths can be confusing and may mislead women about the realities of pregnancy.
Some women believe they can’t conceive if they have sex too close to ovulation or their baby will be born with a birthmark if the father has one. Other myths include the belief that you should avoid eating certain foods during pregnancy, such as sushi, or never drink alcohol while pregnant.
In this blog post, we will explore 10 common pregnancy myths and dispel them once and for all. Whether pregnant or trying to get pregnant, arm yourself with the facts to make the best decisions for you and your baby.
Don’t exercise
It is a common myth that pregnant women should not exercise. However, there are many benefits to exercising during pregnancy, including reducing the risk of gestational diabetes, improving cardiovascular health, and helping to reduce back pain. If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about what exercise is safe for you.
Eat for two
Eating for two during pregnancy is a common myth. While eating healthy and balanced meals during pregnancy is important, you don’t need to eat twice as much as you normally would. Eating too much can lead to weight gain, which can be difficult to lose after the baby is born. Instead, choose wholesome foods to keep you and your infant baby healthy.
Big bellies have difficult deliveries
It is one of the most common pregnancy myths out there. While it is true that carrying more weight can make delivery more difficult, it doesn’t mean that all women with big bellies will have a tough time. Many women with bigger bellies end up having successful and uncomplicated deliveries. So don’t worry if you’re carrying extra weight – you can still have a healthy and smooth delivery.
Heartburn indicates the baby has lot of hair
There is a common misconception that heartburn during pregnancy indicates that the baby will have a lot of hair. It is not true! Heartburn is caused by the pregnancy hormone progesterone, which relaxes the valve between the stomach and esophagus. It allows stomach acid to escape and can cause burning and irritation. While there is no direct correlation between heartburn and baby hair, it indicates that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
Mothers are happy after childbirth
Mothers are happy is also bliss. Of course, mothers are blessed to have a child, but she has also undergone a lot of pain to give birth to their child. Some women may experience baby blues after childbirth; it usually gets better within 1-2 weeks. The first 3 months for your baby is considered the fourth trimester for you.
You are probably exhausted if you recently had a new baby. Sleep deprivation is inevitable when you have a newborn at home, especially because they follow a specific schedule and need your help to get it right.
No coffee during pregnancy
You may have heard that you should not take coffee once you are pregnant. Well, that is not true. You can take coffee especially decaffeinated ones. Caffeine in beverages is why people say you should not take it, but you can still take up to 150mg daily. Anything more than that is dangerous.
C-section myth
The myth that once you give birth through C-section for your first baby makes, other pregnancies follow suit is not something to hold on to in this dispensation. Now we have better research works and expertise that can help to prevent placenta accreta, which is the origin of the myth.
Breastfeeding comes naturally
Well, let me burst your bubbles. Breastfeeding doesn’t come naturally; even you give birth. For some women, it comes naturally, while for some, it is hard work. It all depends on your body anyways. Whether it comes naturally or not, it isn’t something that cannot be handled.
Breastfeeding is the natural way to feed your baby. It’s not complicated, it’s not hard, and it doesn’t require any special equipment or training. Breastfeeding is easy for most women and babies after certain days of practice.
Stay away from sea food
Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid eating fish. They are told to stay away from seafood for the sake of their unborn child. However, this is not necessarily a good idea because it can lead to an unhealthy diet.
Fish is an excellent source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for the baby’s development. So pregnant women should eat fish but only in moderation, and they should avoid certain types of fish with high mercury levels.
Eating peanut or milk products will make your baby allergic
The belief that eating peanuts or dairy products during pregnancy can make your baby allergic to them is not supported by science.
In the past, it was believed that you could make your child allergic to certain foods by exposing them to them during pregnancy. It is not true, and there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
No air travel during pregnancy
Pregnancy prevents you from taking a plane. You and your baby won’t suffer anything harm by flying. However, before making any arrangements, you should discuss any health concerns, problems, or challenges with your midwife or doctor. The airline may require a letter from your midwife or doctor after week 28 of pregnancy confirming your due date and stating that you are not in danger of difficulties. Before making any reservations, check the airline’s website for their policy.
Pregnancy myths are often passed down from generation to generation. They are not always true, but they can be difficult to dispel. Hope this article helped you in debunking certain myths. God has given you this birth. Believe in Him and leave the rest to Him. Enjoy your pregnancy.
The bottom line
Pregnancy myths are often passed down from generation to generation. They are not always true, but they can be difficult to dispel. We hope this article helped you in debunking certain myths. God has given you this birth. Believe in Him and leave the rest to Him. Enjoy your pregnancy.