Fact Vs. Fiction: Common Pregnancy Myths
It takes one simple Google search on the Internet about pregnancy to be inundated with way more information than anyone could ever digest. With all the myths, old wives tales, and murky information out there, it can be hard to differentiate between fact and fiction. It is important to trust in medical professionals, not bloggers on the Internet when it comes to what is safe for your pregnancy. Here are the top 5 pregnancy myths we here from patients, with the facts you need to know.
Via ABC Health
FICTION: You are eating for two
Fact: It is common to hear people telling pregnant women that they are eating for two. While this is technically true, this doesn’t mean that you are eating double your usual caloric intake. You don’t have a human your size inside of you, therefore you actually only need an extra 300 calories per day to get proper nutrition. In fact, overeating may put you and your baby in harm. Weight gain may lead to an increased chance of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and possibly the need for cesarean section delivery due to the baby being too large.
FICTION: You shouldn’t exercise
Fact: Actually, maintaining a regular exercise routine is good for both you and your baby’s health. The most important thing is to do what is comfortable for you. If you exercised regularly prior to getting pregnant, do not increase the amount you exercise while pregnant. Keep it low impact, and don’t do anything that causes you discomfort. If you did not exercise prior to becoming pregnant, don’t start anything intense; you do not want to put your body in shock. Again, stick to low impact exercises to get your blood pumping.
Via WebMD
FICTION: Have sex 14 days after your period to get pregnant
Fact: This is an extremely common myth among couples trying to conceive. In a perfect world, having sexual intercourse 14 days after your period would be the perfect way to get pregnant. However, this calculation is based off a woman having exactly a 28-day cycle. We know all too well that not every woman has a 28 day cycle, so it is important to pay attention to your ovulation, and amp up the intercourse during that period of time.
FICTION: Don’t eat sweets
Fact: Chocolate is okay. You shouldn’t load up on sugars throughout the pregnancy, as it is not good for baby and goes back to the point about “eating for two”. However, studies show that eating chocolate in moderation throughout the pregnancy is good for the baby. Chocolate is a stress reliever, so babies born to a mother who ate chocolate tend to be happier and under less stress throughout infancy. Dark chocolate is also an excellent antioxidant, which is good for both mom and baby. Remember, moderation is key!
Via Mom Junction
FICTION: Certain foods and sex induce labor
Fact: When that time is coming, there is certainly nothing wrong with eating spicy food or getting intimate with your partner, however there is no proof that this speeds up the labor process. Do whatever feels good and takes your mind off the contractions, but don’t expect any wacky tricks to actually speed up the process!
If you have any other questions about any tips or tricks you read on the Internet, be sure to reach out to a medical professional. Schedule an appointment with us in Livingston, NJ to get all of your questions answered so that you have a safe and educated pregnancy!
