There are so many myths related to pregnancy that it’s hard to keep track of what’s fact and what’s fiction.
It’s easy to get caught up in rumours about what you can and can’t do while pregnant. And because word-of-mouth spreads so quickly, especially through social media, many women believe things that simply aren’t true.
That’s why we’re here to bust some of the most common myths related to pregnancy.
We’ve picked out seven of the most common myths related to pregnancy that are simply not true!
Myth 1: Can’t eat sushi
This myth has been around for ages but, the good news is, that’s all it is: a myth.
If you’re a fan of sushi, this will be great news. You can still eat seafood while pregnant. In fact, it’s high in necessary Omega-3s, which are important for your baby’s cognitive development.
Make sure the sushi is from a reliable source and that it’s been frozen, as this kills the parasites that can cause food poisoning. You still have to stay away from swordfish, marlin, and shark, so check your sushi before tucking in.
Myth 2: Eating for two
Another common myth related to pregnancy is that expecting mums should eat for two. While it’s a fun excuse to enjoy a little more than usual, it’s actually not true. In fact, overeating can cause more health problems for you and the life you’re growing inside.
You can give in to the cravings when they happen within reason but it’s recommended to keep a healthy and balanced diet. Your calorie intake should only increase by 200 or so during the third trimester.
Myth 3: Can’t fly anywhere
While it’s not recommended to fly towards the end of your pregnancy, this doesn’t mean you can’t fly at all.
If you’re worried about booking a babymoon then you’ll be relieved to know you have nothing to worry about. You can revel in the freedom of holidays before the baby arrives. It’s always best to check the FAQs sections on the airline you’re flying with, however.
After six or seven months, you should have the all clear from a midwife or doctor first. Your pregnancy should also be low-risk. If you do want to fly late into your pregnancy, you should invest in travel insurance, just in case anything should happen while you are away. It’s also sensible to take a copy of your medical records or any notes.
Myth 4: No hot baths
This myth has been supported by various scientific reports over the years. And a well-known old wives tale recommended gin and a hot bath to get rid of unwanted pregnancies.
However recent studies have shown that pregnant women can soak in a nice hot bath without raising their temperature to levels that might harm their unborn child.
So now you can relax in a steamy bath whenever you want – just avoid soaking in water that's hot enough to raise your body temperature higher than 39 degrees for more than 10 minutes.
A good way to test the water is to put your elbow or forearm in first. This is the most sensitive part of your body when it comes to temperature so if those parts turn red then consider putting some cold water in.
Some mothers worry that bath water may harm their baby by entering the uterus, but this isn’t true. Your baby is protected by the amniotic sac. Unless your water breaks in the bath then the baby is completely separated from the water you’re in.
Myth 5: No caffeine
It is true that excessive caffeine intake can increase the chances of a low birth weight, but it’s a myth that you have to cut out caffeine altogether.
Your caffeine intake does have to be monitored though. The recommended amount is 200mg a day, which is equivalent to two mugs of instant coffee or one mug of filter coffee.
This 200mg limit includes all sources of caffeine, so as well as coffee you’ll need to count teas (including green tea), cola, energy drinks and even your beloved chocolate bar!
If you’re someone who loves their cuppa every morning, you can always treat yourself to this and then switch to decaf for the rest of the day.
Myth 6: No exercise
One of our other myths related to pregnancy is about exercise. In the past mums-to-be have worried that exercise can damage the health of their baby.
This is simply not true however. If you’re not experiencing complications, then a moderate amount of non-strenuous exercise is actually recommended. It will help you maintain your own health and that of your baby throughout your pregnancy, as well reduce problems during birth. Staying fit will also help with restoration of your post-pregnancy body so why not try workouts like yoga and swimming, they’re a great way to get the recommended 30 minutes of exercise a day.
Myth 7: Eating peanuts will cause allergies
There have been a lot of horror stories about food allergies lately. However, this myth related to pregnancy isn’t something to be worried about.
There is no scientific evidence that eating peanuts will cause your baby to be allergic in future. It’s perfectly safe to eat peanuts - and in fact nuts and raisins can make a very healthy snack. Although of course, you should only avoid eating them if you have a nut allergy.
Bonus myth: You have to put up with stretch marks post-pregnancy
Many women resign themselves to permanent stretch marks after pregnancy.
Of course, they’re wrong! Well, since the arrival of Secret Saviours, anyway!
While stretch marks are nothing to be ashamed of, we understand why lots of new mums don’t want to live with them for the rest of their lives.
With the arrival Secret Saviours Stretch Mark Prevention System, stretch marks can finally be prevented (in the past products have only been able to claim that they reduce the appearance of stretch marks). 82% of women who have used our 3-step system have entered motherhood with the same smooth, stretch mark free skin they had before pregnancy.
All of these myths related to pregnancy are proof that not everything you hear is true. So go ahead and enjoy a babymoon, chow down on sushi, or start your morning with a cup of coffee.
As long as you everything is approved by your GP or midwife, then you’ll have a happy and healthy baby.
