A new year is officially here! This year our New Year’s resolution is all about setting the record straight. To help our initiative, we’ve complied a list of some of the bad pregnancy advice that has been floating around. Alongside each piece of bad advice or myth, we’ve provided our commentary to set the record straight.
1. Everything You Read and Hear is True
It is important to understand that not every pregnancy is the same. If you are unsure about any signs/symptoms you are experiencing during pregnancy, it’s true that support groups, online communities, and friends can add a lot of valuable insight and provide useful pregnancy advice, but it is always best that you speak to your doctor when it comes to your uncertainties. Your doctor will be able to analyze your individual pregnancy situation from an expert standpoint based on your tests, examinations, etc.
2. Don’t Travel During Pregnancy
Generally, traveling during pregnancy is safe if you have an uncomplicated pregnancy. Whether traveling by air or car, be aware of your surroundings. Plan ahead and make sure you are well hydrated and able to promote circulation throughout your body. This means taking rest-stop breaks or walking about the cabin when you are able to do so.
3. Beautiful Babies Are Made by Staring at Beautiful Objects
There are a lot of factors that go into making a baby, and staring at a beautiful object is not one of them. Instead, focus your view in on the true beauty of your pregnancy and how special this time is in your life. Pregnancy is such a joyous time that your baby will be beautiful from the inside and outside.
4. If You Lift Your Arms, the Cord Will Wrap Around the Baby’s Neck
Moving around and exercising during pregnancy is completely normal and healthy. In fact, The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ASOG) recommends 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise per day on most, if not all, days of the week, unless you have a medical or obstetric complication.
5. Don’t Use a Microwave or You Will Miscarry
Microwaves rarely leak radiation and there isn’t evidence supporting the myth that the use of a microwave oven during pregnancy will harm you or your baby. However, if your microwave is old or damaged there’s a chance that some radiation may leak through. If you’d like to test your microwave, BabyCenter.com provides instructions on how to do so.
6. Smoking Keeps you Regular
According to WebMD, there is no safe level of smoking during pregnancy. The chemicals found in cigarettes are carried into your bloodstream, working their way inside your baby. This is definitely a pregnancy myth that you want to avoid at all costs.
7. It’s Ok to Have a Little Alcohol
There is no safe amount of alcohol one should consume during pregnancy. As a result it is recommended that moms-to-be stay away from drinking alcohol during pregnancy. If you are looking to quench your thirst, try creating a mocktail instead. Cheers!
8. Only Gain 20 Pounds
Every pregnancy is unique and specific to the individual. There is no exact amount of weight a mom-to-be should gain during pregnancy. However, it is recommended that you follow a healthy pregnancy diet to ensure you and your baby are getting the proper nutrients.
9. Don’t Sit in the Sun During Pregnancy
Whenever you are out in the sun, it’s important that you follow sun safety guidelines to ensure that you and your baby are protected, especially during the summer months. It is recommended that you wear sunscreen, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and wear protective clothing when appropriate. These precautions are suggested as skin cancer prevention tips for moms-to-be.
10. If You Go in the Water, the Baby Will Slide Out
Water therapy can be very soothing for you and your baby during pregnancy. Your baby will not slide out! Water aerobics is a great activity for you to try during pregnancy, especially since it is a low impact exercise.
11. The Baby Will Catch a Cold in Bad Weather
As long as you stay healthy, you will give your baby the best chance to stay healthy too. To help prevent any serious diseases, it is recommend that you get the appropriate vaccinations or immunizations. Please note there are specific times during your pregnancy when these shots are safe versus, some that are not.
12. All First Babies Come a Month Late
Each pregnancy is very unique and there is no specific rhyme or reason to calculate if your baby will arrive late or not. Schedule routine check-ups with your doctor to ensure your baby is properly growing each step of the way.
13. Stay Away From All Seafood During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women fear the idea of eating fish during pregnancy. However, it is said that eating certain types of fish, high in omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury, could help to promote your baby’s brain development. The Mayo Clinic suggests choosing fish like salmon, anchovies, herring, trout, and sardines. It is recommended that you limit consumption to 12 ounces per week and by no means should you consume any raw fish!
14. A Bigger Baby is a Better Baby
According to WhatToExpect.com, the average baby should weigh 7.5 pounds. If your baby is much bigger than 7.5 pounds, there is a greater chance that he or she will suffer from diabetes and/or obesity later in life.
15. Pregnant Women Should Eat for Two
It is recommended that only an extra 300 calories per day be consumed in order to provide proper nutrients to your baby. With a normal healthy diet consisting of 2,000 calories per day, you should aim to consume only 2,300 to 2,500 calories. Eating for two will cause excess weight, which could result in a bigger baby and life long effects.
If you live in the area, call us and schedule an appointment with one of our Board-Certified pediatricians or attend one of our baby classes for moms-to-be to learn more about the facts surrounding pregnancy. We will gladly assist you.
Now that you know the facts surrounding these pregnancy advice myths, pass it on!