Pregnancy Myths
If you’re like many moms-to-be, you’ll study pregnancy books and surf the Web for information. You’ll want to know how to keep your baby as healthy as possible. And, like others, you might fall prey to some myths.
Here are some of the most common pregnancy myths:
MYTH: Morning sickness only happens in the morning.
Truth: Nausea with or without vomiting is a very common pregnancy symptom. Despite this condition’s most popular name, “morning sickness,” these symptoms can arise at any time of the day. In addition, while nausea and vomiting most often correlate with the first trimester, women can experience these symptoms throughout the entirety of their pregnancies.
Learn more about dealing with nausea during pregnancy.
MYTH: Exercise increases your risk of miscarriage, low birth weight or early delivery.
Truth: Moving your body in pregnancy helps almost every single symptom of pregnancy and most importantly, decreases anxiety and helps elevate mood in pregnant women. If you are healthy and your pregnancy is normal, it is generally safe to continue or even start regular physical activity. However, it is important to discuss exercise with your obstetrician or other member of your health care team during your early prenatal visits. If your health care professional gives you the OK to exercise, you can discuss what activities you can do safely.
Learn more about exercise during pregnancy.
MYTH: I can’t have a cat while I’m pregnant.
Truth: There is no need to give away your pets when you become pregnant. However, there is a disease called toxoplasmosis that can be harmful to your unborn baby, and you can become infected by handling cat’s feces. Ask someone else to change your cat’s litter, or wear gloves to do this — as well as when gardening — while you are pregnant.
Learn more about toxoplasmosis.
MYTH: I should be 'eating for 2' while I'm pregnant.
Truth: The popular saying is that pregnant women “eat for two,” but if you are pregnant with one fetus, you only need an extra 340 calories per day starting in the second trimester (and a bit more in the third trimester). That's roughly the calorie count of a glass of skim milk and half a sandwich. Women carrying twins should consume about 600 extra calories a day, and women carrying triplets should take in 900 extra calories a day.
Learn about food safety while pregnant.
MYTH: I shouldn’t travel while pregnant.
Truth: Air travel is safe during pregnancy up until 36-37 weeks. Flying increases the risk for venous thromboembolism; pregnant women should wear support hose and/or move frequently if traveling a long distance.
MYTH: I Can Gain As Much Weight As You Want During Pregnancy.
Truth: Women should gain weight during pregnancy, but gaining too much is not healthy. It depends on how much you weigh when you get pregnant, how many babies you’re carrying, and other factors. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests that women of normal weight gain 25 to 35 pounds. Women who are underweight or carrying more than one baby should gain more. Those who are overweight or obese should gain less.
Learn more about weight gain and pregnancy.
Being pregnant is a special time, so don’t spend it worrying too much. Call your healthcare provider as soon as you think you’re pregnant. If you’re planning to get pregnant, see your healthcare provider before you conceive. He or she can give you advice based on your health history. If you have any questions during your pregnancy and need to speak to a physician or a member of our staff, please contact us.
