Becoming a mother is a blessing for every woman.
The feeling is unique, new and like an exciting rollercoaster ride for every first mom.
Partner, parents, in-laws, and friends are always there for us whenever we need them, as they know how delicate this period is.
Therefore, they always suggest to us, eat this, eat that, don’t work too much, take rest and a lot of things they can probably suggest.
But do you know that some suggestions are actually myths?
Yes… You’re hearing it right!
As Indian moms, we are generally surrounded by many people who suggest things to us daily.
But it should be our choice and our understanding of what to follow and what not to.
Because there are many pregnancy myths we hear from our close ones…
It’s not their fault because they have also heard the same for decades.
It means these myths are so normalised in Indian culture and embedded in the minds of Indian moms that we never try to question them, whether they are scientifically true or not.
But mommies will bust all the Pregnancy Myths in India and present facts to you.
We will guide you throughout your journey for a more happy pregnenecy.
Therefore, this blog is for every mom who had a question but stayed unasked and unanswered.
Let’s see what these myths are and try to dig into the facts.
#Myth 1: You Have To “Eat For Two”
You have heard it many times that “now you are carrying a baby in your womb, so you have to eat double, or you have to eat for two”.
But no.. This is a myth. You don’t need to eat for two.
This can lead to unnecessary weight gain or can increase sugar in your blood, which can impact the baby and mother in the long term.
That’s why, do not consume extra food; rather, you can increase 300-500 extra calories per day in the second and third trimesters.
Instead of doubling the quantity of food, double your nutrition.
Eat healthy like leafy vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and other nutrients dense food.
But you have to avoid some foods as well for a healthier pregnancy.
Check our blog to understand which foods should be avoided during pregnancy.
#Myth 2: Do Not Climb Stairs Or Do Exercise
Moving your body and doing exercise is always a good thing to do, whether you are a normal woman or a pregnant one.
But in India, doing exercise by a pregnant lady means a Big No. Because they believe climbing stairs or exercising would harm the baby.
Therefore, we say half information is always dangerous.
Because the fact is, moderate exercise, yoga, even swimming, is good for a mother’s health.
It helps improve blood circulation, reduce back pain, boost mood and energy, and also helps better labour outcomes.
The only thing that you should avoid is difficult and complex exercises or lifting heavy weights.
Climbing stairs is also good, just do it with care and avoid using slippery stairs or walking on slippery floors.
So, do gentle yoga and exercise, which do not put much burden on your body.
Just be calm…and prioritise your health…
At mommies, check the best exercises you can practise during pregnancy.
#Myth 3: Do Not Cut Or Dye Your Hair
In Indian families, there are lots of misconceptions related to hair, but “Don’t cut or dye your hair’’ this sentence is a very common saying for pregnant ladies.
So let’s understand that cutting hair has nothing to do with babies health.
If cutting hair makes you feel comfortable and fresh, then go for it!
Actually, due to hormonal changes, hair health often improves.
Dyeing your hair with natural products is good, but avoid using harsh chemical-based products if possible.
#Myth 4: Pregnant Women Should Not Laugh
Laughing is the best medicine, right?
But there is a belief in India that Mom to be should not laugh too much!
But according to doctors, it is still the best medicine.
Because the baby is well-cushioned by the uterus and abdominal muscles, making normal laughter is completely safe.
It gives you a little pain sometimes, but it is normal.
Pregnancy brings many physiological changes; blood pressure can rise in some women.
Gentle laughter can help lower blood pressure, benefiting both mother and baby.
If you’ve already passed this stage and managing stress as a housewife mom feels difficult, then check our previous blog.
#Myth 5: If You Lie On Your Back, Then Baby Will Suffocate
This isn’t the full truth.
After about 20 weeks of pregnancy, lying flat on your back for long periods may reduce blood flow because the uterus presses on a major vein (vena cava).
However, this does not literally suffocate the baby; side-lying is simply more comfortable and supportive.
For better sleep, sleep on your left side, which helps improve blood flow to the placenta.
Use pillows to support your back and belly for extra comfort.
#Myth 6: You Should Not Travel At All
Imagine, due to some emergencies, you need to travel somewhere, but people told you not to do so.
Then what would you probably do?
You might decide to travel only if it’s very necessary, yet still feel a little guilty for the baby.
But let us tell you…
Stop feeling bad for this because travelling is generally safe in the second trimester (14 to 28 weeks).
Note – Avoid bumpy rides, take frequent breaks if it’s a road trip, stay hydrated and wear a seatbelt properly.
For air travel, consult your doctor first.
#Myth 7: Cravings And Belly Shape Tells Gender Of A Baby
This is a total myth.
How can a mom’s belly shape tell the gender of a baby!
Belly shape and cravings do not reveal a baby’s gender.
Scientifically, a mother’s belly shape depends on the baby’s position, the mother’s body type, muscle tone, number of previous pregnancies, and amount of amniotic fluid.
And cravings are influenced by hormonal changes, nutritional needs, taste and smell sensitivity.
The fact is, the baby’s gender is determined at conception by chromosomes, not by belly shape or food cravings.
#Myth 8: Eating Saffron Or Drinking Coconut Water Makes The Baby Fair-Skinned.
Eating or drinking anything does not determine the baby’s skin colour.
A baby’s complexion mainly depends on genetics (parental factors).
Saffron and coconut water can be part of a healthy diet, but they do not change the baby’s skin tone.
#Myth 9: Creams And Serums Can Prevent Stretch Marks
Having a stretch mark is normal during pregnancy. But no cream or serum can prevent stretch marks.
Stretch marks occur due to skin stretching, hormonal changes, and genetics.
Moisturisers and oils can improve skin hydration, reduce itching, and make marks appear lighter.
…but they cannot guarantee prevention.
There is no shame in having a stretch mark; it is normal during pregnancy.
Embrace your body and stay stress-free from these worries.
#Myth 10: Ultrasound Harm To The BABY
This is again a myth.
Ultrasound scans are considered safe when done appropriately because they use sound waves, not radiation.
They are important for monitoring the baby’s growth, checking development, and detecting complications early.
Just ensure scans are done by qualified healthcare professionals and only when medically recommended.
At Mommies, we understand that pregnancy is filled with excitement, doubts, emotions, and a lot of unsolicited advice.
Our goal is to walk beside you at every step with clarity, confidence, and care.
Final Note For Every Mom-To-Be
Dear mommy, this journey may feel like a rollercoaster, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
With the right knowledge and trusted guidance from Mommies, you can embrace pregnancy with confidence, calm, and joy.
Because a happy, informed mom nurtures a healthy, happy baby.
