Pregnancy is a magical time, but it's also a period filled with conflicting information, often making it hard to separate fact from fiction. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common pregnancy myths and set the record straight!
Myth 1: You Should Eat for Two
Truth: While it’s true that your body requires more nutrients during pregnancy, you don’t need to double your caloric intake. In fact, during the first trimester, you don't need any extra calories at all. In the second trimester, an additional 300-350 calories per day is generally sufficient, and in the third trimester, about 450 extra calories is recommended. Instead of focusing on quantity, prioritise nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins.
Myth 2: Morning Sickness Only Happens in the Morning
Truth: Despite its name, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day. The hormonal changes in early pregnancy can cause nausea and vomiting, which varies greatly from person to person. For some, it’s a mild annoyance, while others may experience it throughout the day. Understanding your body's needs and finding ways to manage nausea—like eating small, frequent meals and staying hydrated—can make a big difference.
Myth 3: Pregnant Women Should Avoid Exercise
Truth: On the contrary, moderate exercise is actually beneficial for most pregnant women. Regular physical activity can improve mood, increase energy levels, and help manage weight gain. It can also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and improve sleep. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise regimen, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are often recommended.
Myth 4: You Can’t Dye Your Hair During Pregnancy
Truth: This is a common misconception! According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, limited exposure to hair dye is considered safe during pregnancy. However, many opt to wait until after the first trimester when the baby's development is more established. Using ammonia-free dyes or opting for highlights instead of full colour may also minimise any potential risk.
Myth 5: You Shouldn't Eat Fish While Pregnant
Truth: Fish, especially fatty varieties like salmon and sardines, is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for the baby's brain development. The key is to avoid high-mercury fish, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, and instead consume low-mercury options like shrimp, canned light tuna, or tilapia. The FDA recommends 2-3 servings of low-mercury fish per week for pregnant women.
Myth 6: Heartburn Means Your Baby Will Be Born with a Full Head of Hair
Truth: This is one of those old wives' tales that seems too bizarre to be true. However, there is some science to back it up—sort of. A 2006 study found a correlation between heartburn severity and the amount of hair a newborn has. However, the main reason for heartburn during pregnancy is the hormonal changes that relax the valve between the stomach and oesophagus, allowing stomach acid to reflux.
Myth 7: Carrying High or Low Determines Baby's Gender
Truth: The way a pregnant belly looks has more to do with the baby’s position, the mother’s body type, and the strength of her abdominal muscles than the baby’s gender. Scientific studies have shown that there is no reliable way to predict a baby’s gender based on how the pregnant belly appears. For those curious about their baby’s gender, ultrasound remains the most accurate method.
Myth 8: Pregnant Women Shouldn’t Eat Spicy Foods
Truth: While spicy foods may cause discomfort for some pregnant women, such as heartburn or indigestion, they are not harmful to the baby. Each woman’s body reacts differently to spicy foods, so it’s more about personal comfort than safety. If you enjoy spicy foods and they don't cause you any discomfort, there's no reason to avoid them.
Conclusion
Pregnancy is a unique journey filled with countless questions, and it's easy to get swept up in the myths and misconceptions. By staying informed with accurate information, you can navigate this exciting time with confidence and peace of mind. Remember, when in doubt, always consult your healthcare provider to get the most reliable guidance tailored to your specific needs.
References:
- https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/im-pregnant/nutrition-in-pregnancy/how-much-extra-should-i-eat-pregnancy#:~:text=Most%20people%20don't%20need,is%20a%20common%20pregnancy%20myth.
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/nutrition-during-pregnancy#:~:text=Dairy%3A%20fat%2Dfree%20or%20low,trout%2C%20herring%2C%20sardines%20and%20pollock
- https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/morning-sickness-should-you-be-worried
- https://diatribe.org/exercise/role-exercise-improving-gestational-diabetes-outcomes
- https://www.nhs.uk/start-for-life/pregnancy/using-hair-dye-in-pregnancy-is-it-safe/#:~:text=Most%20research%20shows%20that%20it's,low%20amounts%20of%20these%20chemicals.
- https://www.uhsussex.nhs.uk/resources/food-safety-and-pregnancy/
- https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/indigestion-and-heartburn/#:~:text=Indigestion%2C%20also%20called%20heartburn%20or,safe%20to%20take%20in%20pregnancy.
- https://health.howstuffworks.com/pregnancy-and-parenting/pregnancy/issues/carrying-boy-or-girl1.htm
- https://www.parents.com/eating-spicy-food-while-pregnant-7972274#:~:text=You%20might%20have%20heard%20that,such%20as%20heartburn%20or%20indigestion.