Myths and Facts About Pregnancy

A baby is something you carry inside you for nine months, in your arms for three years and in your heart till the day you die.

-- Mary Mason

Three days back I was watching the movie "Sex and the City" on HBO, and I was particularly moved by the moment when Charlotte got pregnant for the first time. She was so terrified and worried about it, that she stopped going for her jogging and indulging in any other physical activity, till her fear was being driven away by her friends, doctors, husband and her own self-confidence. 

It is always blissful for a pregnant woman to consciously dream about her baby, and other wonders that would unfold in front of her with time. But, the unknown also opens doors to countless fears and numerous advices that pour on her from everywhere, her friends, her relatives, her neighbors and other so called "well wishers". To all this, just add the diametrically opposite advices from her obstetrician, and here you have a perfect formula to cause panic.

If you too are challenged with these problems, the first and foremost advice I'd suggest is to simply - Relax. The more you are surrounded with people, the more advices and suggestions you'll hear, and there are loads of things which are well said and heard, but don't have any scientific basis to them.

Below are some of the worst pregnancy fears and concerns, which have come and gone in every woman's life during her pregnancy, and have well proven to be nothing more than just myths:

1) Morning Sickness may mean that baby is not getting proper nutrition

Morning sickness is the most common thing during pregnancy. You may often feel sick at the sight, smell or even thought of food, but you need not worry on that. Usually, a woman gains less weight during early months of her pregnancy. As a matter of fact, it has been noticed that some women even tend to loose some weight initially. The nutrition to your baby in early months depends on your health factor before you got pregnant. If you have had a healthy body, then stay safe that your baby is well nourished and in proper form. The only time to worry is if the morning sickness gets escalated to severity, along with signs like dehydration and severe weight loss. Also, never forget to take your folic acid supplements.

2) Having sex during pregnancy may hurt the baby

If you have a low-risk pregnancy, there is no need for abstinence. The only case when you may be asked to avoid sex is if you have had a history of pre-term labor or are going through a high-risk pregnancy. The best way is to take your doctor's consultation in this regard.

3) I love to do exercises, but I guess I must stop it now

Staying fit, in reality increases your stamina. There is no harm in doing exercises by staying within your stamina as long as your exercise don't tire you out or make you unduly breathless. You can follow the general guide of having enough air to talk comfortably, all through your workout. The safest and best way for everyone, even those who are not habitual of regular exercise, is to go for brisk walking. You can always consult your doctor for more inputs about your exercise regime.

4) I took some analgesic the other day. Will that affect my baby?

Pregnancy does not mean that you have to get worried about it all the time. Many physicians agree that it is okay to take an occasional analgesic for severe aches. Just make it sure you consult your doctor on the safety of medicines you take.

5) I am worried for my baby coz I bumped on another person while walking on the road.

The baby stays well protected and cushioned in your uterus inside the amniotic fluid in which your baby floats. Any minor fall, stumble or bump can not harm baby. Nevertheless, if you experience cramps or early pregnancy bleeding like vaginal bleeding, it is best to instantly consult your doctor.

6) Reduce the usage of Microwaves, Cell Phones and Computers

A study done at National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati says that computers are absolutely safe to use. Now, with microwaves, you are at the risk of getting radiations only if there are any leakages. Hence, you can use them as per your need, but be careful to keep a safe distance while they are on, just for your safety. It is also perfectly safe to use mobile phones. If you are still worried about these devices, you can minimize their usage by using them only when there is any specific need.

7) I must not carry or lift anything during pregnancy

Unless, you face any strain in lifting anything, it is usually fine to lift small things like groceries and small kids. Provided you do it in a proper way, there is no reason to get worried about it. You should bend your knees to lift anything and carry it closer to your body. 

8) One of my friends stopped drinking coffee, while she was pregnant

Small amount of coffee will not harm your baby, but it would be prudent and safe to avoid drinking more than 3 cups daily. Large amount of caffeine intake may cause the baby to have low birth weight. Hence, follow the general rule and have one cup of coffee to kick start your day, daily!

9) I have read somewhere that flying is not safe while being pregnant

Till your delivery date is around six weeks away, it is perfectly safe to fly once in case of any emergency or business deal. Various airlines have policies regarding this, and you can ask them any time. Airport security passage will definitely not harm your baby at all. If your job requires you to fly frequently, then you can modify your schedule to avoid getting any higher doses of radiation in-flight. If you are flying for longer duration, it is always best to stretch your legs and move around in order to avoid getting blood clots.

10) My friend’s baby used to move a lot when she was pregnant. Why is my baby so lazy?

It might cause some amount of apprehension, the moment you start feeling your baby’s movements. If you are too much worried and concerned about its movements, you can follow up with your baby’s movements by keeping a count. You may want to keep the record more when your delivery date gets closer. The basic rule is 10 movement counts over a period of six hours. Unless, you actually count the movements, you might miss a few and start worrying.

Make your pregnancy meaningful by staying healthy, happy and cheerful. Always remember, the baby is your part and it can feel your emotions too.

A mother's joy begins when new life is stirring inside... when a tiny heartbeat is heard for the very first time, and a playful kick reminds her that she is never alone.
-- Author Unknown