07/09/2025
Pregnancy is a time of immense change and often comes with a lots of advice, some of which is based on outdated beliefs or folklore. It's important to separate these myths from medically-backed facts to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy.
Diet and Nutrition
Myth: You are "eating for two" and should double your food intake.
Fact: This is a common misconception. While you do need more calories to support your baby's growth, it's not double. Most pregnant women only need an additional 300-500 calories per day, primarily in second & third trimester
Myth: Spicy foods can harm the baby or induce labor.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this. Spicy foods are generally safe to consume during pregnancy unless they cause the mother discomfort, such as heartburn, which is a common pregnancy symptom
Myth: Raising your arms over your head can cause the umbilical cord to wrap around the baby's neck.
Fact: This is an old wives' tale with no basis in science. While it's true that the umbilical cord can wrap around a baby's neck, it happens independently of the mother's movements and rarely causes harm.
General Health and Lifestyle
Myth: The shape or height of your belly can predict the baby's gender.
Fact: A baby's gender is determined genetically and cannot be predicted by the way a woman is "carrying." The shape of a pregnant belly depends on factors like a woman's body type, muscle tone, and the baby's position.
Myth: You can't sleep on your back during pregnancy.
Fact: In the later stages of pregnancy (from about 28 weeks), it's recommended to sleep on your side, particularly your left side. This is because sleeping on your back can put pressure on abdomen & decrease blood flow to brain