In this article:
Myths vs. Facts
1. Myth: “Eat for Two”
Fact: You need better nutrition, not double the food
Pregnancy increases your nutritional needs, but it does not mean you should constantly overeat.
Excessive weight gain during pregnancy may increase the risk of:
- Gestational diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Difficult delivery
- Slow postpartum recovery
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Pulses and lentils
- Dairy products
- Nuts and seeds
- Protein-rich foods
2. Myth: Do Not Exercise During Pregnancy
Fact: Moderate exercise is usually healthy during pregnancy
If your pregnancy is uncomplicated, doctors will encourage you to include mild physical activity and movements in your routine to have a healthier pregnancy journey.
The benefits include:
- Better blood circulation
- Relief from back stiffness and pain
- Sound sleep
- Reduced stress
- Better ability to manage labour
3. Myth: Morning Sickness Only Happens in the Morning
Fact: Nausea can happen at any time of the day
Pregnancy-related nausea mainly happens because of hormonal changes.
You may feel sick:
- Early morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- At night
- After smelling something unpleasant or certain foods, like eggs
4. Myth: Papaya or Pineapple Consumption Always Causes Pregnancy Loss
Fact: Most fruits are safe in moderation
In fact, ripe papaya is not considered harmful for pregnancy. Concerns mainly relate to large amounts of unripe papaya.
Similarly, pineapple eaten in normal food quantities does not usually trigger labour or miscarriage.
Instead of avoiding healthy fruits unnecessarily, focus more on food hygiene and balanced nutrition.
5. Myth: Saffron Milk Makes the Baby Fair
Fact: Skin colour is determined genetically
Many expecting parents in India still hear this advice from older relatives.
However, no food can change your baby’s complexion. Skin colour mainly depends on inherited genes from biological parents and family background.
Saffron may add flavour and aroma to milk, but it does not affect the baby’s skin tone.
6. Myth: You Can Predict the Baby’s Gender from Belly Shape or Cravings
People may say:
- Carrying high means a girl
- Carrying low means a boy
- Sweet cravings mean a girl
- Salty cravings mean a boy
- Fast heartbeat means a girl
Your baby bump shape may depend on:
- Your body structure
- Muscle tone
- Baby’s position
- Previous pregnancies
It is important to note that prenatal sex determination for non-medical reasons is also illegal in India.
7. Myth: Stretching Your Arms Upwards For Hanging Clothes Or Other Reasons Is Unsafe During Pregnancy
Fact: Normal arm movements do not affect the umbilical cord
Many people believe lifting your arms above your head may wrap the umbilical cord around the baby’s neck.
There is no evidence that hanging clothes or extending your arms upwards harms the baby.
You may continue normal daily activities comfortably unless your doctor advises otherwise.
8. Myth: Hair Dye Always Harms the Baby During Pregnancy
Fact: Hair dyeing during pregnancy does not carry a very high risk.
The amount of chemical absorbed through the scalp is usually very small.
Many doctors still recommend taking extra precautions, especially during the first trimester, because this is an important stage of foetal development.
If you colour your hair during pregnancy:
- Use it in a well-ventilated space
- Never do it bare-handed
- Do not keep it for too long
- Consider milder products if possible
9. Myth: Hot Baths Are Completely Unsafe During Pregnancy
Fact: Warm baths are usually safe, but overheating should be avoided
A comfortably warm bath is not considered risky during pregnancy.
However, very hot baths, saunas, steam rooms, or hot tubs may raise your body temperature too much and increase the risk of dizziness or dehydration.
However, warm baths may actually help relax fatigued muscles and reduce body aches.
10. Myth: You Cannot Have Sex During Pregnancy
Fact: Sex is usually safe in a healthy pregnancy
Unless your doctor advises restrictions, sex is generally considered safe throughout pregnancy.
The baby is protected inside the uterus by amniotic fluid and surrounding muscles.
However, doctors may advise avoiding sex in certain situations, such as:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Placenta praevia
- Leaking amniotic fluid
- Risk of premature labour
11. Myth: Flying During Pregnancy Is Always Dangerous
Fact: If your pregnancy is not a complicated one, you can travel safely
Flying is usually considered safe during a healthy pregnancy.
The second trimester is often the most comfortable period for travel because nausea may reduce, and movement still feels manageable.
However, always speak with your doctor before making travel plans if you have pregnancy complications.
12. Myth: Heartburn Means Your Baby Will Have Thick Hair
Fact: Heartburn is mainly caused by hormonal and digestive changes
During pregnancy, hormones relax certain muscles, which causes acid in the stomach to move upwards more easily.
Moreover, it can be due to increasing pressure on your stomach as your uterus gets bigger.
Heartburn is common during pregnancy, but it cannot indicate how much hair your baby will have.
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FAQs on 12 Common Pregnancy Myths You Should Stop Believing
- Can caffeine be consumed during pregnancy?
Yes, small amounts of caffeine are usually considered safe during pregnancy, but not in excessive amounts. - Is it safe to keep pets during pregnancy?
Yes, pets can usually remain in the house during pregnancy. However, handling cat litter should be avoided because of the risk of toxoplasmosis infection. - Will my baby definitely arrive on the due date?
No. A due date is only an estimate. Most babies are born within a few weeks before or after the expected date.