Debunking Common Pregnancy Myths and How to Handle Them

During pregnancy and childbirth, expectant mothers often receive a plethora of advice from those around them. While these tips are usually well-intentioned, you might wonder if they're actually true. In this article, we will explore some common pregnancy myths and reveal the facts behind them.

Eating Peanuts or Dairy Causes Allergies in Babies

It's safe to consume peanuts and dairy products during pregnancy unless you have an allergy yourself. There's no scientific evidence suggesting that avoiding certain foods prevents allergies in your child. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns.

Exercising During Pregnancy is Unsafe

Exercise is beneficial during pregnancy and generally does not pose a risk to your baby. As long as you don't have any complications, you can continue most of the exercises you did before pregnancy. However, you might need to modify your routine as your pregnancy progresses. Always consult your doctor, as some exercises should be avoided. If you weren't active before pregnancy, start with light activities like walking or prenatal yoga, which can support both physical and mental health.

You Can Gain as Much Weight as You Want During Pregnancy

Gaining weight healthily during pregnancy is crucial, but excessive weight gain isn't recommended. The amount of weight to be gained depends on various factors, such as the mother's pre-pregnancy weight, the number of children she is carrying, and other factors like age, health condition, and nutritional status.

• If the mother had a normal weight (normal BMI), the healthy weight gain range is typically between 11 to 16 kilograms.

• If the mother was overweight before pregnancy, the recommended weight gain is between 8 to 11 kilograms.

• In cases of obesity or chronic health conditions, the weight gain should be limited, usually between 4 to 9 kilograms.

Therefore, it is always recommended to have regular follow-ups with a doctor to ensure healthy weight maintenance during pregnancy.

Predicting Baby's Gender Through Myths

There are many myths about predicting a baby's gender, such as the baby's activity level, but these are not reliable. The most accurate way to determine your baby's gender is through an ultrasound, although it may not be precise, especially early in pregnancy. Some labs offer a non-invasive prenatal blood test after the 10th week, which can determine the baby's gender and assess the likelihood of chromosomal disorders. Examples include:

• Down Syndrome: caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.

• Edwards Syndrome: caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18.

• Patau Syndrome: caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13.

Eating for Two During Pregnancy

Expectant mothers only need extra calories in the last trimester—about 300 additional calories per day. A healthy, balanced diet is essential for both mother and baby, rather than focusing on excessive calorie intake. These 300 extra calories can be equivalent to a small snack, like an apple and a cup of yogurt, which helps support both your health and your baby's growth without overeating. Remember, the goal is to add balanced, nutritious elements to support your baby's development.

Traveling During Pregnancy is Dangerous

Traveling by plane or on long car trips is generally safe during pregnancy. However, it's best to avoid traveling in the early months due to tiredness, fatigue, and nausea, which can make traveling uncomfortable. The best time to travel is in the second trimester, between weeks 14 and 28, when morning sickness is less likely, and your belly isn't too large to hinder movement.

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, the woman is in the third trimester, which is the final stage before childbirth. At this point, the baby is considered "full-term" and ready for delivery. However, travel and physical activity become more challenging due to bodily changes. Some airlines do not allow pregnant travelers after 36 weeks and may require a doctor's note to confirm the safety of travel.

Additionally, the risk of blood clots increases during this period, especially with prolonged sitting, such as during air travel. Regular movement, ankle exercises, and compression stockings are recommended to mitigate this risk. It's best to consult a doctor before traveling, as there's an increased risk of premature birth or other complications.

Morning Sickness Only Happens in the Morning

Nausea can occur at any time of the day, though it's most common in the morning for many pregnant women. It typically improves after the first trimester but can last longer for some women.

Pregnant Women Crave Specific Foods

Pregnant women often crave certain foods and eat them in larger quantities, but not all pregnant women experience this. The reason for these cravings is not well understood, though hormonal changes affecting taste and smell are thought to play a role.

Creams Prevent Stretch Marks

Stretch marks occur when the skin stretches, such as during pregnancy or weight gain. These marks are harmless and don’t require treatment unless they bother you. Treatments are more effective when the marks are new and red. To prevent them, keep your skin elastic by using moisturizers or oils on your belly and thighs, avoiding products with vitamin A. There’s no proven way to prevent stretch marks, but using oils and creams can ease itching. After birth, treatments like laser therapy or chemical peels may help, but they can’t fully remove them. Always consult your doctor before starting any treatment.

Heartburn Means a Hairy Baby

This is a common myth that says frequent heartburn during pregnancy means the baby will be born with thick hair. Some studies have shown that pregnancy hormones can relax the sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus, causing heartburn. At the same time, these hormones may play a role in promoting fetal hair growth. However, this connection cannot be considered a proven fact, as the scientific evidence is limited to only one small study. Therefore, this belief remains an interesting but scientifically unconfirmed piece of information. There are also many cases where women experience heartburn without the baby being born with thick hair, and the opposite is true as well.

Nifas Advice

During pregnancy, you'll encounter various advice and beliefs, some of which may be myths without scientific backing. The "Nifas" app advises all pregnant women to verify the information they hear, whether about diet, exercise, or determining the baby's gender. Always refer to reliable medical sources or consult your doctor before following any advice. Don't let myths influence your health decisions during this unique journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)