Life
9 Pregnancy Myths Debunked For Good, So You Don’t Fall Down The Wikipedia Rabbit Hole
So you’re having a baby! After the initial emotions simmer down, you’re probably hit with a flood of questions. What can you eat? Can you keep dying your hair or do your roots have to run wild for nine months? Can you turn your baby into a tiny coffee addict in utero? All the questions can drive a mama insane. And while it is certainly important to do your research, you’re bound to come across at least a few of the many pregnancy myths that exist purely to add to your stress- as if you needed more of that in the first place.
And because you need your sleep, and staying up Googling your late night questions on your phone isn’t the best use of your time, we’re here to save you a little bit of worry by debunking some of the top pregnancy myths.
Some of these questions may be old news to you while some might venture into new territory, but whatever the case, they’re the answers you need to know and don’t need to stay up at night worrying about. So read on, and then rest easy- because these myths don’t have to be so mysterious after all.
Myth 1: Cocoa Butter Prevents Stretch Marks
We all dread them and do whatever it takes to prevent them, but all our worrying may be for naught. As Mayo Clinic notes, stretch marks are caused by rapid weight gain or weight loss and cocoa butter, while an excellent moisturizer, can’t really do anything about that. If you notice the occasional stretch mark, wear them with pride- and moisturize with cocoa butter.
Myth 2: You Can’t Have Sex
False! As long as you’re not in any physical discomfort and your doctor hasn’t said otherwise, What To Expect says you and your partner most definitely should get it on throughout your pregnancy.
Myth 3: Certain Foods Can Induce Labor
Although there is no scientific evidence that spicy foods will induce labor, there’s no harm in trying. When your due date is so close you can feel it, it’s natural to want to help things along. Just don’t bank all your hopes in the Mexican restaurant down the street.
Myth 4: You Should Eat For Two
Though the Office on Women’s Health acknowledges that most pregnant women need about 300 extra calories a day to reach healthy weight goals, this doesn’t mean you need to eat twice as much as usual.
Myth 5: You Can’t Have Coffee
This may be true if your coffee habit involves consuming a triple shot Americano every morning and a few extra boosts throughout the day. But you don’t have to give up coffee altogether. The March of Dimes recommends that moms-to-be limit coffee intake to one or two cups a day.
Myth 6: You Can’t Dye Your Hair
According to the American Pregnancy Association, the available research indicates that the chemicals in hair dye are not dangerous for the baby. However, if the smell makes you nauseous, or you dye your hair often, it may be best to embrace your roots for the time being.
Myth 7: You Have To Stay Grounded
Although you may lack the energy for adventurous travel plans, the Mayo Clinic writes that it’s safe to fly during pregnancy, provided you get your doctor’s clearance. The Mayo Clinic also recommend staying put after 36 weeks, as their are some risks involved with flying that close to your due date.
Myth 8: You Can’t Workout
There are many benefits to exercising during pregnancy, including improved sleep, ease of body aches, and preparation for labor. But don’t over do it and, as with anything, speak to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Myth 9: You Get Weird Cravings
Yes you might have some odd dietary desires, but you also may not have any cravings.
