Pregnancy is a time of excitement. It is also one of profound physical and mental transformations. When reading a pregnancy guide, it's easy to become confused about what to do and what to avoid in order to have a safe pregnancy.
Everyone appears to have their own ideas and tactics for caring for yourself and your growing child. Whether it's from well-meaning family members or acquaintances, it's all too common to receive inaccurate information, leaving you to separate fact from fantasy.
Today, we will dispel some of the most prevalent myths about pregnancy.
Myth: Morning sickness subsides by noon
Fact: It is usual to have nausea throughout the day.
At least during the first few weeks of pregnancy, morning sickness can come at any time of day, and many of our patients report that it lasts the entire day.
It is unclear exactly what causes morning sickness, although shifting hormone levels are most likely to blame. Morning sickness often begins around week 6 and subsides between weeks 12 and 14, as you enter the second trimester.
Myth: It's unsafe to exercise during pregnancy.
Fact: Doctor-recommended exercise is beneficial during pregnancy.
While it is true that high-contact sports and vigorous exercise should be avoided during pregnancy, low to moderate activity provides numerous health benefits. Being active is beneficial for you and your baby, as it helps you manage weight gain during pregnancy and promotes better labour and delivery.
Women who were physically active prior to pregnancy can typically maintain their previous exercise regimens, with adaptations to accommodate their increasing bellies. If you were previously inactive, walking is an excellent way to become active.
Myth: You must abstain from caffeine for nine months.
Fact: Caffeine is safe for pregnant women to consume in moderation.
Most research indicates that low levels of caffeine have no detrimental impact on developing foetuses. If you consume coffee and soda in moderation, it is generally OK to continue drinking them while pregnant.
Just limit daily caffeine consumption to 12 ounces or less, or approximately 1.5 cups of coffee.
Myth: You're feeding two lives
Fact: The popular expression "eating for two" should not be taken literally; a pregnant lady does not need to consume twice as much food! Doubling your caloric intake can result in excessive weight gain, which can create complications later in pregnancy.
A pregnant lady should consume no more than 200 calories per day and concentrate on building good eating habits. Your baby requires nutrition to grow and develop, so you should consume a diet high in nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats, and calcium-rich meals.
Important vitamins such as folic acid and iodine can be difficult to obtain through diet alone. Consult your OB-GYN about taking supplemental forms of these nutrients.
Myth: It Is Dangerous to Be Past the Due Date
Fact: Your due date is an estimation of when your baby will reach 40 weeks gestation. It is usual to deliver before or after the due date. In reality, you must be two weeks past your due date for your pregnancy to be deemed post-term.
You could develop a post-term pregnancy if:
- This is your first pregnancy for you.
- Your infant is a male.
- Your body mass index is 30 or greater (obesity).
- Your due date was incorrectly computed due to a misunderstanding of your previous menstrual period (LMP).
If you go past your due date, your OB-GYN will regularly monitor the size, heart rate, weight, and position of the baby. If the health of the mother or foetus is at risk, your OB-GYN may consider a labour induction to facilitate vaginal delivery.
Myth: If you are above 35, your pregnancy will be considered high-risk.
Fact: A pregnancy that begins after a woman reaches the age of 35 is called "high-risk" since certain hazards are increased, but not inevitable. The majority of mothers aged 35 or older have a healthy pregnancy and child. Pregnancy myth, busted! There are even perks to being an older mother, such as financial security and a wealth of life experience that can aid in the parenting journey.
Consult with your gynaecologist about the possible consequences. These consequences might be caused by underlying health problems, such as diabetes and hypertension, that become more prevalent with age. Obtaining appropriate treatment for these conditions can increase your likelihood of having a healthy pregnancy.
Schedule an appointment with your OB-GYN if you are 35 or older and consider the benefits of a preconception consultation, a visit when you begin trying to conceive, and be sure to maintain all of your prenatal appointments.
There is a great deal more to learn about pregnancy, and there are still many things that are unknown. Collaborate with your physician if you are pregnant or if you intend to become pregnant in the near future. They will be able to assist you in formulating a strategy for a safe pregnancy and birth, as well as answer any questions you may have regarding symptoms, potential issues, and what to anticipate.