Having a baby is both an exciting and bewildering time for expectant mothers, with a neverending stream of old wives tales and anecdotes on the various stages of pregnancy.
With so many opinions, it can be hard to know which advice to listen to and which to disregard.
To make things a little easier, we've debunked some of the most common myths about pregnancy.
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1) You can tell what sex the baby is by the shape of your bump
Legend would have it that if a woman is carrying a boy, her bump will be carried higher than if she were pregnant with a girl. However, the experts say that the position of the bump is more related to body shape and muscle tone than the sex of the baby.
2) You'll lose your baby weight during the delivery
While many women still believe that the bump disappears when the baby is delivered, those who have had children can attest to the fact that this is a definite myth. Women tend to lose between ten to fifteen pounds once the baby is born but the rest is usually lost through breastfeeding and exercise.
3) You need to eat for two
One of the most popular myths about pregnancy is that the expectant mother needs to greatly increase the amount she eats to cater for her growing baby. However, while it is important to have a nutritious and balanced diet, an additional 300 calories a day is considered enough to keep both mother and baby healthy. That said, being pregnant is definitely a valid excuse to have that slice of cake if you fancy!
4) Eating certain foods will bring on labour
From spicy foods to castor oil, it has long been said that some foods will stimulate the uterus and bring on labour. While there are many anecdotes to back this up, scientific evidence has failed to prove that there is any substance to this myth.
5) Having sex will hurt your baby
A common concern among first time parents is that having penetrative sex could cause damage to the developing baby but, in most cases, there is absolutely nothing to stop you getting jiggy throughout your pregnancy. The baby is protected by a sac of fluid and unless there are complications such as cervical weakness or a low-lying placenta, sex is not only allowed but recommended, as it can strengthen your relationship with your partner and prepare the body for labour.
6) Seafood is off the menu
While seafood may not have been advised during pregnancy in the past, recent research has shown that the omega-3 contained in fish can actually aid the mental development of the baby. Uncooked fish, such as raw sushi, is still not recommended but salmon, cod and mackerel are all a safe source of protein and fatty acids.
7) All mothers should be 'blooming' during pregnancy
While there is a stereotype that all expectant mother get a glow during their pregnancy, this is not the case for everybody. Pregnancy can also result in tiredness, mood swings and nausea so if all you want to do is curl up on the couch and feel sorry for yourself, you're not alone!
8) Women should avoid exercise during pregnancy
Some women are afraid to exercise during pregnancy but there is no need for concern. While it is not advisable to take up a new or strenuous regime while pregnant, doctors recommend that expectant mothers stay active as this will help the body during labour. In addition, exercise will boost your endorphins to keep you smiling throughout the nine months.
9) Morning sickness will pass after the first trimester
Nausea and morning sickness are traditionally worse in the first few months of pregnancy but that doesn't mean it will always finish right on schedule. An empty stomach can lead to queasiness, hence the 'morning' tag, but it is normal to experience symptoms in the afternoon and evening also. Try to avoid odours and foods that trigger illness and stick to lighter meals if struggling with a lack of appetite.
10) You should be filled with joy at every scan
Hollywood movies would have us believe that every mother bursts into uncontrollable tears of happiness at each sight of her developing baby but the reality is slightly different. Whether you can't see much in the scan or find the trips to the hospital a bit of a chore, don't beat yourself up about it. Every woman's journey through pregnancy is unique so relax, enjoy and let it all happen!
