From Conception to Delivery: Debunking Common Pregnancy Myths
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with excitement, anticipation and a lot of unknowns. With so much information available, it can be overwhelming for expecting mothers to determine what is true and what is just a myth. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common pregnancy myths from conception to delivery, providing you with accurate information to help you have a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.
Myth #1: You can’t get pregnant while on your period.
This is a common misconception that many women believe, leading them to engage in unprotected sex during their period. The truth is, while it is less likely to get pregnant during your period, it is still possible. Sperm can survive in the body for up to 5 days, and if you have a shorter menstrual cycle, you could ovulate shortly after your period ends, increasing your chances of getting pregnant.
Myth #2: You should eat for two during pregnancy.
While it is important to eat a healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy, you do not need to double your food intake. In fact, during the first trimester, your body only needs an extra 100-300 calories per day, and during the second and third trimesters, it only needs an extra 300-500 calories. Eating too much can lead to excessive weight gain, which can cause complications during pregnancy and delivery.
Myth #3: Pregnant women should avoid all forms of exercise.
Exercise during pregnancy is not only safe but highly recommended. It can help improve your mood, maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, and prepare your body for labor and delivery. Of course, certain activities should be avoided, such as contact sports or activities with a risk of falling, but low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are highly beneficial for both mom and baby.
Myth #4: You can determine the gender of your baby based on the shape of your belly.
Many people believe that if you are carrying high, you are having a girl, and if you are carrying low, you are having a boy. However, the shape and position of your belly have more to do with your body type and the position of the baby. The only way to determine the gender of your baby is through an ultrasound or genetic testing.
From Conception to Delivery: Debunking Common Pregnancy Myths
Myth #5: You can’t fly during pregnancy.
As long as you have a healthy pregnancy, flying is safe until 36 weeks. However, some airlines have restrictions, so it is best to check with your doctor and the airline before booking a flight. It is also important to walk around and stretch your legs during the flight to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Myth #6: It is safe to drink alcohol during pregnancy.
This is a dangerous myth that can have severe consequences for both mom and baby. No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy, as it can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause physical, behavioral, and intellectual disabilities in the baby. It is best to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy.
Myth #7: Morning sickness only happens in the morning.
Contrary to its name, morning sickness can happen at any time of the day. While it is most common in the morning, some women experience it throughout the day or even at night. It is caused by hormonal changes and usually subsides after the first trimester. If you experience severe and persistent morning sickness, consult your doctor.
Myth #8: You should avoid all medications during pregnancy.
It is essential to consult your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy, but in some cases, it is necessary. For example, if you have a chronic condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to manage it. However, it is important to avoid over-the-counter medications without your doctor’s approval, as they can be harmful to the baby.
Myth #9: You can’t have a vaginal birth after having a cesarean section.
While it is true that some women may not be able to have a vaginal birth after a c-section due to certain complications, many women have successful VBACs (vaginal birth after cesarean). It is vital to discuss your options with your doctor, who can help you determine if a VBAC is a safe option for you.
Myth #10: Breastfeeding prevents you from getting pregnant.
While breastfeeding can delay ovulation, it is not a reliable form of birth control. It is still possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding, and it is recommended to use contraception if you do not wish to get pregnant again soon after giving birth.
In conclusion, there is a lot of misinformation surrounding pregnancy, and it is crucial to seek accurate information from reliable sources, such as your healthcare provider. By debunking these common pregnancy myths, we hope to provide you with the knowledge to have a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.