Most of us have certain notions and beliefs that may or may not be right. Pregnancy is one such issue where myths are common, and vary from region to region and culture to culture. Here are half a dozen pregnancy myths around the world.
These are the common ‘old wives’ tales’ that are the subject of discussions in kitty parties.
Let me discuss some of them here.
Myth: One should not eat papaya in pregnancy.
Fact: You can consume papaya. Hundreds of years ago papaya seeds were consumed to bring about termination. Ripe papaya is good for you and the baby.
Myth: When you are pregnant you need to eat for two.
Fact: Please don’t. Remember you will have to work double to lose that weight. It is important to just eat well balanced, healthy small frequent meals.
Myth: If you crave salty foods, then you have a baby boy.
Fact: Cravings in pregnancy have nothing to do with the sex of the child. There is no scientific explanation for the cravings and they probably are just secondary to the hormonal changes in the body.
Myth: It is best to avoid sex during pregnancy.
Fact: It is alright to have sex during pregnancy. You should avoid it only in case the doctor specifically advises you to do so, the placenta is low lying, there is a chance of miscarriage or preterm delivery, and if you are bleeding during pregnancy.
Myth: You can tell the sex of the baby by looking at the bump of the mother.
Fact: Honestly, there is no connection between the sex of the baby and the way the bump grows. If someone can tell the sex by looking at the baby bump, then that person is a superhuman being.
Myth: After delivery, you must not wear a brassiere
Fact: Most women feel comfortable wearing a brassiere and there is no harm in doing so. You can wear maternity brassiere that fits you correctly.
