Pregnancy might be one of the happiest periods of your life but it also comes with a lot of advice from friends and family. Some of these practices that you are advised to follow may not seem feasible and may even feel quite unreasonable. Of course, if you are a new mom,  it can get really confusing. Here are some pregnancy myths and facts that can help you find a better perspective.

#1. Myth 1: You must eat for two when you are pregnant

This is something that you are going to hear very often, especially from the elders in your family. You may end up overeating and feeling uncomfortable all the time. Fact: All you need to do when you are pregnant is increase your calorie intake slightly to help your body support your baby. It is best to consult a nutritionist as the extra portion of calories depends on a lot of things like your weight, height and activity level. This will also change with every trimester of your pregnancy. Also read: 7 Pregnancy Myths Related To the Lunar Eclipse

#2. Myth 2: You must not bathe too often

This is one of the pregnant myths that may not seem too logical to you. Well, it is a baseless pregnancy myth as there is no concrete evidence that shows  that bathing too often can cause issues. Fact: Practicing good hygiene during pregnancy is actually a good idea. It can keep the germs that can harm you and the baby away. However, it is advised that you do not take showers that are too hot. Your body temperature must not go beyond 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit. It is safest to keep the temperature of the water moderate at about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

#3. Myth 3: The shape of the belly and the heart rate of the baby can determine the gender

This is a pregnancy myth and fact that you must be aware of. People will tell you that if the belly is low lying, it will be a boy and a girl if it is higher. It is also believed that a faster heart rate means that it is a girl while a slower one means that it is a boy. Fact: Your belly lying high or low depends on several things like the strength of the muscles in the abdomen, the number of births and also the structure of the muscles in the uterus. The heart rate of the baby will change as the pregnancy advances and also depends upon the health of the mother and the baby. Also read: 13 Pregnancy myths and facts

#4. Myth 4: Papayas or Pineapples can cause miscarriage

Fact: Unripe papaya has a latex-like substance that is called chymopapin that can lead to contractions of the uterus. Similarly, an enzyme called bromelain that is found in papaya can cause the same issue. However, you will have to eat a large quantity of these fruits for any negative effects to occur.

#5. Myth 5: Your baby will be fairer if you eat oranges and saffron

The desire to have fair children paved way for this pregnancy myth. Pregnant women are encouraged to drink saffron milk and also eat oranges to improve the baby’s complexion. Fact: The complexion of your baby is determined only by genetics. It does not really have anything to do with the food that you consume when you are pregnant.

#6. Myth 6: Pregnancy makes you glow

Pregnancy glow is probably one of the biggest pregnancy myths. Facts: The hormones in your body and the level of fatigue determines the health of your skin. You may encounter several skin issues like acne, patchy skin or dark circles when you are pregnant. Also read: 7 Biggest Myths (& Facts) About C-Section Delivery which every pregnant woman should know

#7. Myth 7: Having sex during pregnancy is risky

It is believed that sex during pregnancy can lead to premature labor or even a miscarriage. Fact: Only when your doctors advise you against it should you not have sex during pregnancy. The amniotic sac protects the baby and makes it completely safe for you to have sex.

#8. Myth 8: You must not exercise during pregnancy

People still believe that exercising during pregnancy can cause issues like premature birth or can lead to complications. Fact: Moderate exercise and keeping your body moving is actually good for your baby. It also helps keep you healthy during your pregnancy by improving muscle strength.

#9. Myth 9: Spicy food can induce labor

Pregnant women are advised against consuming spicy food as it may cause premature labor. Fact: The only issue that you may face when you consume spicy food is heartburn and acidity. Besides that, it is perfectly safe to consume spicy food in moderation. Also read: Advantages and Disadvantages of having Extra Ghee in Pregnancy

#10. Myth 10: You must not raise your hand above your head when you are pregnant

It is believed that the umbilical cord may wrap itself around the neck of the baby if you do this. Fact: There is no real evidence to support this myth and it is quite safe for you to stretch your arms over your head. Want to share your experience as a mom with other moms through words or images? Become a part of the Moms United community. Click here and we will get in touch with you

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