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Common Pregnancy Myths in India Debunked

  • 18 Aug 2024 09:49 AM
  • Pregnancy, Prenatal care, Pregnancy myths, Healthy pregnancy, Pregnancy facts, Maternal health, Pregnancy tips
  1. Eat for Two
    • Myth: Pregnant women need to consume double the calories.
    • Fact: An additional 300 calories per day is sufficient. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications.
  2. Eating Papaya Causes Miscarriage
    • Myth: Papaya is harmful and can induce miscarriage.
    • Fact: Only unripe papaya contains latex that can induce labor; ripe papaya is safe and beneficial.
  3. Saffron Makes the Baby Fair-Skinned
    • Myth: Consuming saffron will make the baby lighter-skinned.
    • Fact: The baby's skin color is determined by genetics, not saffron.
  4. Ghee Eases Delivery and Speeds Up Recovery
    • Myth: Ghee helps in easier delivery and faster postpartum recovery.
    • Fact: Excessive ghee consumption leads to weight gain; it does not affect delivery ease or recovery significantly.
  5. No Activity During an Eclipse
    • Myth: Pregnant women should avoid all activities during an eclipse to prevent birth defects.
    • Fact: Eclipses do not affect pregnancy. General precautions should be taken, but no special restrictions are necessary.
  6. Avoid Caffeine Completely
    • Myth: Caffeine causes miscarriage, preterm birth, or low birth weight.
    • Fact: Limited caffeine (up to 200mg per day) is generally safe. Excessive consumption may increase risks.
  7. No Sex During Pregnancy
    • Myth: Sex during pregnancy can harm the baby or cause miscarriage.
    • Fact: Sex is generally safe if there are no pregnancy complications. The baby is well-protected by the amniotic sac and cervix.
  8. Avoid Sleeping on Your Back
    • Myth: Sleeping on the back cuts off oxygen to the fetus.
    • Fact: The most comfortable sleeping position is best. Left-side sleeping is recommended for certain complications but not necessary for everyone.
  9. Exercising Harms the Baby
    • Myth: Exercise during pregnancy is harmful.
    • Fact: Exercise is beneficial for both mother and baby. Consult a doctor for a safe exercise routine.
  10. Flying During Pregnancy is Unsafe
    • Myth: Air travel is dangerous during pregnancy.
    • Fact: Flying is generally safe before 36 weeks of pregnancy. Consult a doctor, especially if there are complications.
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