Every expectant mother in Nigeria hears them: don’t eat snails, don’t eat eggs, the shape of your bump tells you if it’s a boy. Some pregnancy beliefs are harmless. Others can stop you eating foods you need or getting care you should have. Here are the most common pregnancy myths, and what the evidence actually says.
The facts: There is no link between eating snails and drooling, slow development or any other problem in babies. Well-cooked snail is a good source of protein and iron, both of which you need more of in pregnancy. Just make sure it is cleaned and cooked thoroughly.
The facts: Food cannot shape a child’s character. Eggs are one of the most affordable sources of protein, choline and vitamins for pregnant women. The only rule is to cook them until the yolk and white are firm, to avoid salmonella.
The facts: Whether you carry high, low, round or pointed depends on your muscle tone, body shape, the baby’s position and whether this is your first pregnancy. It says nothing about sex. An ultrasound scan from around 18–20 weeks is the reliable way to find out, if you want to know.
The facts: You need better nutrition, not double portions. Most women need no extra calories in the first trimester, about 340 extra calories a day in the second and about 450 in the third. That is roughly an extra snack or small meal, not a second plate. Eating far more than you need raises the risk of gestational diabetes and a difficult delivery. See 7 fruits and vegetables to eat during pregnancy.
The facts: For most women with healthy pregnancies, regular moderate exercise is safe and helpful. It can ease back pain, improve sleep and mood, and lower the risk of gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. Walking, swimming and prenatal exercises are good options. Check with your doctor first if you have a medical condition. Try these best exercises for pregnant women.
The facts: Your baby is protected by the amniotic fluid, the strong muscles of the womb and a mucus plug at the cervix. In a normal pregnancy, sex is safe right up to labour. Your doctor may advise against it if you have bleeding, a low-lying placenta (placenta praevia), your waters have broken or you are at risk of early labour.
The facts: Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation. Scans done by trained professionals for medical reasons have been used safely for decades. They confirm your due date, check your baby’s growth and position, and can detect problems early.
The facts: Heartburn is common in pregnancy because hormones relax the valve at the top of the stomach and your growing womb pushes upwards. Hair has nothing to do with it. Smaller, more frequent meals and not lying down straight after eating can help. Ask your doctor before taking antacids.
The facts: This one is partly true. Ripe pawpaw is a healthy fruit and is generally safe. Unripe or semi-ripe pawpaw contains latex, which may trigger contractions, so it is best avoided while you are pregnant.
The facts: Many serious pregnancy problems, including pre-eclampsia, anaemia and gestational diabetes, cause no symptoms early on. Routine checks are how they are caught in time. The World Health Organization recommends at least eight antenatal contacts. Read why antenatal care matters.
In this masterclass, our team discussed common misconceptions of pregnancy. Listen and watch here. If you need to see a doctor, you can book an appointment at a Reliance Family Clinic.
For more answers, read our frequently asked questions on pregnancy and the do’s and don’ts in pregnancy.
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor or midwife.
