Unfounded Pregnancy Beliefs You Ought to Abandon
Expecting mothers face numerous misconceptions about pregnancy, leaving them overwhelmed and unsure about what is truly beneficial for their health and their baby's. To clarify some of the most common myths, Dr. Anna Shope, an obstetrician-gynecologist at UW Neighborhood Shoreline Clinic, and Mary Bolles Holder, a certified nurse midwife at the Midwives Clinic at Northwest Outpatient Medical Center, debunk some of the most widely believed falsehoods surrounding pregnancy.
Myth: Expecting mothers need to eat for twoIn reality, an extra 300 to 350 calories per day is sufficient for pregnant women carrying one child who follow a daily recommended diet of 2,000 calories. Opt for quality food choices over focusing on the quantity of calories consumed.
Myth: It's not safe to take a bath while pregnantPregnant women can feel free to unwind in a warm bath without worry, as long as the water temperature is kept reasonable. Avoid prolonged submerging to reduce risk.
Myth: Heartburn during pregnancy means your baby will have a full head of hairDespite the popular belief, heartburn during pregnancy is not indicative of the baby's hair growth. Heartburn is a result of pregnancy hormones causing the lower esophageal sphincter to stay relaxed. The likelihood of a baby being born with an abundant amount of hair is mostly influenced by genetics.
Myth: You shouldn't dye your hair when you're pregnantWhile pregnant women should aim to minimize their exposure to chemicals, evidence suggests that hair dye, in moderation, is safe to use during pregnancy.
Myth: Exercising while pregnant can hurt the babyQuite the contrary, exercise during pregnancy is beneficial for both mother and baby, helping maintain overall well-being. Pregnant women are advised to engage in moderate-intensity exercise for 20 to 30 minutes, three to four times per week.
Myth: Morning sickness only happens in the morningMorning sickness may manifest at any time of the day due to fluctuating hormones, but it typically subsides during the early stages of the second trimester.
Myth: It's not safe to drink coffee while pregnantEnjoy a moderate amount of coffee (approximately 200 milligrams of caffeine per day) during pregnancy, about equal to an 8-ounce cup of drip coffee.
Myth: Pregnant women should avoid chocolateChocolate, in moderation, is safe for pregnant women, though it's important to keep in mind it's high in calories.
Myth: One glass of wine while pregnant is OKMultiple organizations, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, strongly advise against the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy due to the increased risk of birth defects, miscarriage, and stillbirth.
Myth: Having sex during pregnancy can hurt the babyAs long as the expecting mother experiences no complications, sexual intercourse is generally safe during pregnancy and does not pose a risk to the developing baby.
Myth: It's not safe to eat fish while pregnantA balanced and nutritious diet that includes fish, particularly salmon, can enhance a baby's development. The Washington State Department of Health provides a list of approved fish to help expectant mothers make informed choices.
Myth: What you eat during pregnancy can affect your baby's food allergiesThere is no strong evidence suggesting that avoidance of certain foods during pregnancy reduces the likelihood of food allergies or food preferences in the baby.
Myth: Flying while pregnant can cause a miscarriageTraveling by air is generally safe during pregnancy, but it's important to remain hydrated, stand up and walk periodically, and consider wearing compression stockings to minimize blood clot risks.
Myth: Pregnant women shouldn't pet catsPregnant women can safely pet cats, but it is essential to avoid contact with cat feces to reduce the risk of exposure to toxoplasmosis, a parasite that can cause harm to the unborn baby.
With so much misinformation surrounding pregnancy, it's crucial to seek professional advice when possible. Speak with your obstetrician-gynecologist or midwife for guidance tailored to your unique situation. Armed with accurate information, you can better enjoy this exciting journey with your growing bump.
[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/morning-sickness/faq-20058217
- Pregnant women can maintain their health-and-wellness, along with their baby's, by engaging in moderate-intensity exercise for 20 to 30 minutes, three to four times per week, according to science.
- In reality, an extra 300 to 350 calories per day is sufficient for pregnant women carrying one child who follow a daily recommended diet of 2,000 calories, contrary to the misconception that expecting mothers need to eat for two.
- A balanced and nutritious diet that includes fish, particularly salmon, can enhance a baby's development. Moreover, expert advice from healthcare professionals, such as obstetricians-gynecologists or midwives, is crucial in debunking pregnancy-related myths and ensuring a healthy well-being for both the mother and baby.
