3 Common Pregnancy Myths That Most Of Us Still Do Believe

During pregnancy, a woman has to follow certain dos and don’ts for the well-being of the developing baby. Among them, there are some old wives’ tales that we still hear about pregnancy. Our society has countless myths surrounding the no-longer misunderstood process of pregnancy and birth. However, some of those myths are really fun, while others lead to utter confusion and misunderstanding about our biology. Here, in this article, penned by the medical professionals of a reputed 4D baby scan clinic in Cardiff are the three most common pregnancy myths and the science behind the truth for a better understanding of the mommies-to-be.

Ø Myth 1: During Pregnancy, A Woman Has To Eat For Two.

Fact: Eating for two during pregnancy is nothing but a myth. In fact, there is no such evidence to prove this myth, and note that overeating can result in maternal weight gain and child obesity during pregnancy. In general, your growing baby will get everything it needs from you for the first six months without you needing any extra calories. However, once you reach the last trimester, you may need about 200 extra calories (on top of the 2,000 daily recommendation) each day, as per your doctor’s recommendations.

Ø Myth 2: You Cannot Exercise When You Are Pregnant.

Fact: Did you know that exercising is a good practice for you, your baby’s health, and your mental health as well? If you used to work out before getting pregnant and are accustomed to your routine, continue doing your physical exercise program after consulting your healthcare provider. However, you must avoid any new, strenuous physical activities like holding your breath, excessive bouncing or stretching, jumping, sudden jerk motions, advanced abdominal moves, hot environments like hot yoga, etc.

As per most doctors’ opinion, you should aim for 30 minutes of physical activity for at least five-six days a week all throughout your pregnancy. Besides, if you were not very much active before you got pregnant, start with gentle and moderate exercises, like walking, and low-impact at-home exercises.

Ø Myth 3: Morning Sickness Is Totally A Morning Thing.

Fact: Note that more than 70% of women experience nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. However, you should also note that this sick feeling is not only limited to morning hours only but also can occur at any time of day since it is a result of periodic hormonal changes and drastic disbalance. For most pregnant women, morning sickness improves after the first trimester of pregnancy. While it might be tempting to skip meals, some women even feel better after eating frequent small snacks of dry cereal or toast, or crackers. However, B-6 vitamin tablets and ginger tea are also common morning sickness home remedies.

If you are pregnant with a few questions about any of these myths or think you might be pregnant, come visit us at Window to the Womb! Our baby scan clinic in Cardiff is staffed with kind, non-judgmental medical, and counselling staff and expert ultrasound sonographers.