11 Pregnancy Myths and Facts Every Woman Needs to Read
Pregnancy and childbirth can be both exciting and scary. A woman’s body will go through many physical and emotional changes throughout her entire pregnancy journey.
However, there are many pregnancy myths circulating the internet, confusing what is best for both you and your baby. This article addresses 11 common pregnancy myths, discussing topics ranging from infertility to postpartum depression.
Myth #1: You’re Eating for Two
“Eating for Two” is a popular phrase that shouldn’t be taken literally; a pregnant woman does not need to eat twice as much! In fact, doubling your caloric intake can lead to excess weight gain, which can cause issues later in the pregnancy.
A pregnant woman should only consume an additional 200 calories a day and focus on developing healthy eating habits. Your baby needs nutrients to grow and develop, and you should aim to eat a balanced diet of nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and calcium-rich foods.
It’s also important to talk to your OB-GYN about supplementing important vitamins like folic acid and iodine, which can be difficult to attain at adequate levels through diet alone.
Myth #2: It’s Okay to Have an Occasional Glass of Wine
You should never drink any alcohol while pregnant. There is no safe amount or type of alcohol during pregnancy, and even moderate intake can lead to lifelong problems for your baby. These problems can be less obvious than those caused by heavy drinking and can include coordination, attention, and learning issues.
Alcohol-related congenital disabilities are entirely preventable. Your OB-GYN can offer advice on avoiding alcohol while pregnant and provide the resources you need if you find it a struggle to stop drinking.
Myth #3: It’s Dangerous if You’re Past Your Due Date
Your due date is a calculated estimate of when your baby will hit 40 weeks. It’s normal to give birth before or after your set due date. In fact, you must go two weeks past your due date to be considered a post-term pregnancy.
You may fall into a post-term pregnancy if:
- This is your first pregnancy
- Your baby is a boy
- You have a body mass index of 30 or higher (obesity)
- Your due date was calculated wrong due to confusion of your last menstrual period (LMP)
If you do go past your due date, your OB-GYN will closely watch the baby’s size, heart, weight, and position. Your OB-GYN may recommend a labor induction to help promote a vaginal birth if the health of the mother or fetus is at stake.
Learn more about what to expect during labor and delivery!
Myth #4: If My Periods Are Irregular, I Will Not Be Able to Get Pregnant
Another pregnancy myth—irregular periods mean I am infertile. The occasional irregular cycle is more common than women think, and it does not mean you will struggle with infertility. The hormonal balance that regulates the menstrual cycle is very delicate — sleep disruptions, exercise routine, and stress levels can all alter your period. Although, if you are consistently irregular, conceiving may be more challenging due to the inability to predict ovulation correctly.
If you experience irregular periods, especially if you have gone three or four months without a period, talk to your OB-GYN. They can help determine if there is an underlying health issue and discuss treatment options and lifestyle changes that can help increase the chances of conceiving.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common conditions that affect a woman’s menstrual cycle and fertility. Learn about the symptoms and treatment options here!
Myth #5: All Bleeding During the First Trimester Means a Miscarriage
While any bleeding during any stage of pregnancy can be alarming and scary, it is not always associated with a miscarriage. In fact, vaginal bleeding is extremely common in the first trimester, occurring in 20% to 40% of women. However, it’s still important to talk to your OB-GYN if you experience any bleeding during pregnancy to assess what’s going on.
Learn more about what to expect during your first trimester of pregnancy.
Myth #6: If You’re Over 35, Then Your Pregnancy Will Be High-Risk
A pregnancy that begins after a woman is 35 is considered a “high-risk pregnancy” because certain risks are slightly higher, not inevitable. Most moms 35 or older have a normal pregnancy and healthy baby. Pregnancy myth, debunked! There are even some advantages to being an older mom, including financial stability and having more life experience that can help during your parenting journey.
Talk to your OB-GYN about the types of complications that can occur. These complications can result from underlying health issues that arise more often as we age, including diabetes and high blood pressure. Getting proper treatment for these issues can better your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.
If you’re 35 or older, schedule an appointment with your OB-GYN consider the benefits of a preconception consultation, a visit when you start trying to conceive and make sure to keep every appointment throughout your pregnancy.
Read more about common myths surrounding high-risk pregnancies.
Myth #7: Breastfeeding Comes Naturally
Many new mothers think breastfeeding is an instinct that comes naturally — this is not always true. While babies are born with a reflex to look for their mother’s breast, it’s completely normal for a mother to need coaching and support for positioning their baby for breastfeeding. Breastfeeding takes time and practice, and new mothers shouldn’t feel down or inadequate if it doesn’t immediately click. There are many resources and lactation consultants available to help guide you through your breastfeeding journey.
Read our breastfeeding advice and 10 Tips for Breastfeeding Success!
The decision to breastfeed is a personal one, and it should also be an informed one. Read ‘Your Guide to Breastfeeding’ from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office on Women’s Health to read more common breastfeeding myths.
Myth #8: You Can’t Get Pregnant if You’re on Your Period
While it’s uncommon for a woman to get pregnant while she is on her period, it is not impossible. Sperm can survive in the uterus for up to five days, so if you have sex near the end of your period, there is a possibility that sperm can fertilize an egg after it's released during ovulation. This is most likely to occur if a woman experiences shorter menstrual cycles.
Myth #9: You Shouldn’t Drink Coffee if You’re Pregnant
While a pregnant woman should not drink any alcohol, she can enjoy a cup of coffee. Although, this is where moderation is key. Research suggests moderate caffeine consumption (200 milligrams or less per day) does not cause miscarriage or preterm birth. This is equivalent to about a 12-ounce cup of coffee. If you do opt to enjoy a cup of coffee, it’s important to limit other caffeine consumption from soft drinks, tea, and chocolate.
Myth #10: Once You Have a C-Section, You Will Have a C-Section For All Your Future Pregnancies
Many women believe that once they have delivered a baby by Cesarean section, or C-Section, they will have to schedule a C-Section for their future pregnancies. This is not always the case. A Vaginal Birth After a Cesarean (VBAC) is now considered an option for many women. Depending on your health history, the reason for the initial C-Section, and C-Section scar location, your OB-GYN may give the “OK” to try a VBAC.
Risks associated with a VBAC include infection, blood loss, and the rupture of your previous cesarean scar (a very rare but serious risk). You and your OB-GYN must be prepared to go into an emergency C-Section at any moment during a VBAC if you or your baby’s health is at immediate risk.
Myth #11: All Mothers are Blissful and Happy After Childbirth
Maternal bliss is a myth. While there will be moments of bliss in a mother’s journey, the idea that it will all come naturally and easily is not accurate. Having a baby is a significant life-altering experience, and it will take time and patience to adjust.
Some women experience the “baby blues” about 2 -3 days after childbirth and may feel depressed, anxious, or upset. The sudden change in hormones may cause this, and it usually gets better within a few days or 1 - 2 weeks after childbirth.
The first three months after childbirth are often referred to as the “fourth trimester.” You may experience shifts in emotions and physical abilities during this time, and your OB-GYN is available to talk with you through any of your questions.
If a new mother is dealing with intense feelings of sadness, extreme anxiety, and despair that are preventing her from completing daily tasks, she may be experiencing postpartum depression. Postpartum Depression is a serious condition, and it’s important to talk to your OB-GYN if you have any of these symptoms.
Do not wait to get help, Moreland OB-GYN is here to support and help you through your journey into motherhood. For more information on postpartum mental health, click here.
One Last Myth to Remember! I No Longer Need to See My OB-GYN When I’m Done Having Children
If you are done having children, it does not mean you should skip your annual OB-GYN visit. Your OB-GYN will still want to continue performing essential health screenings for cervical cancer, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer. They can also continue to be an excellent resource during any stage of your life, including menopause.
Moreland OB-GYN will be your caring provider throughout your pregnancy journey, whether you just started trying to conceive or you’re in the early weeks of pregnancy. Our caring providers will take the time to listen to your needs and concerns and can help talk with you about pregnancy myths, facts, and the important things you should know.
As your trusted, local medical partner, we’re here to help you feel safe and confident about your health and the health of your baby. Schedule a visit today!
Ready to plan your pregnancy and birthing experience? Download our Pregnancy Planning Kit by clicking the image below to get started!
