Pregnancy Myths

Pregnancy is a very crucial period for a woman. It is also a considerable span of time. In this period of time, the thoughts which arose gave rise to several myths. Some of these are mentioned below.

Pregnancy Myths
Myth : While giving birth, cutting is better than tearing.
Reality : During episiotomy, cutting involves many layers of tissue and muscle. Tears are small, do not extend into the muscle and heal more comfortably.

Myth : During pregnancy, sex can hurt the baby.
Reality : In a majority of cases, sex is very enjoyable for the woman as there is an enhanced blood flow to the pelvic floor. However, in some cases sex should be avoided.

Myth : For every baby, one tooth is lost.
Reality : If women have an intake of 1500 mg of calcium per day, either from food sources or supplements, there is no issue of loosing a tooth. Teeth are lost only in case of malnutrition, deficiency of calcium or close interconceptional periods.

Myth : By raising the arms above the head, it is possible to tangle the umbilical cord.
Reality : Entanglements occur during early gestation due to fetal activity. Some babies are born with cord surrounding the neck or around the legs or having knots. The mother cannot effect this condition.

Myth : If the mother sleeps on her back, the baby will be hurt.
Reality : For a normal pregnancy, a woman can take any position that is found comfortable. In case of a high risk pregnancy and suspicion of severe water retention, hypertension, maternal kidney malfunction or fetal compromise, resting on the left side is advised.

Myth : The baby's gender can be determined by the fetal heartbeat or the way of carrying.
Reality : Only ultrasound or amniocentesis can be used to find out the baby's gender. There is no other method.

Myth : Coffee has a malicious effect on the baby.
Reality : Coffee if taken in small amounts, like upto three cups per day, is not harmful. However, larger amount of caffeine may result in a baby with low weight.

Myth : Use of cell phones, microwaves and computers is harmful.
Reality : Use of computers and cell phones is totally safe. In case of microwaves, the user may get radiated only if there is a leak. However, overuse of cell phones and microwaves should be avoided.

Myth : If the baby moves, it is a matter of concern.
Reality : When the baby starts moving, the mother must keep a count of its movements. If there are maximum 10 movements in six hours, there is no reason to worry about.

Myth : Exercise must be stopped in pregnancy.
Reality : Exercise is good if it does not make you weary or overheated or extremely breathless. Generally, there must be sufficient oxygen to chat throughout the workout. Those not accustomed to heavy exercise can start brisk walking.

Myth : A pregnant woman must not carry or lift anything at all eg. a three year old child.
Reality : If there is no strain in lifting or carrying, it is not harmful. The knees must be bent and the object must be kept close to the body.

Myth : Flying is not safe during pregnancy.
Reality : If the delivery date is more than six weeks away, it is quite safe to fly once in a while. Passing through airport security is also safe. The woman must find out the policy of the airline. If the flight is long, the woman must move around periodically and stretch her legs to avoid blood clots. If her job needs frequent flying, the schedule must be modified to avoid high doses of radiation in-flight.

Myth : Paracetamol affects the baby.
Reality : Physicians have the opinion that an occasional analgesic for aches in not harmful. However, the physician must be consulted on which medicines can be used.

Myth : Morning sickness results in the baby not getting sufficient nutrition.
Reality : If food causes sickness, there is no need to worry. If the woman is healthy before getting pregnant, the baby is generally well nourished. The folic acid supplements should be taken. Only dehydration, severe weight loss or severe morning sickness are warning signs that are alarming.

Myth : Bumps and falls are harmful for the baby.
Reality : The baby is well protected in the uterus. It is cushioned from minor bumps, falls and stumbles by the amniotic fluid. Only if there are cramps or vaginal bleeding, the physician must be consulted.