Pregnancy could be a really scary thing and the myths that exist out there about the 40-week journey could be even scarier! Don't new moms have enough to worry about when preparing to welcome a newborn to this world? Thankfully, there are plenty of myths about pregnancy that are false and there are studies to prove it. Take a deep breathe and relax. It's all going to be okay!
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Here are ten myths about pregnancy that are thankfully not true.
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Cocoa butter helps combat stretch marks
Unfortunately, stretch marks are unavoidable during pregnancy. A study conducted by Dr. A. H Nassar found that 45 percent of women who rubbed cocoa butter on their skin still developed stretch marks during pregnancy. "Our findings do not support the use of cocoa butter lotion for the prevention of striae gravidarum," said Nassar. Now we know!
You should avoid eating salmon
While some believe that salmon should be avoided during pregnancy at all costs, studies have found that it provides an excellent source of calcium and other nutrients. Since salmon is low in mercury it doesn't pose the same threat that tuna or shark meat would.
Sex during pregnancy could hurt the baby
This myth is false! Dr. Monica Foreman explains that the baby is well protected in the womb. She explains, "It is an egg surrounded by a pillow and another pillow and that there is no way they will hurt the baby, and that usually makes them feel much better." However, having sex during the third trimester may not be the most comfortable.
You should avoid cats during pregnancy
A cat hater must have come up with this one! The one thing to avoid is cleaning the cat's litter since you run the risk of getting an infection known as toxoplasmosis, which causes flu-like symptoms. No thanks!
You can't dye your hair
Thankfully you don't have to let your roots grow out–especially if you have gray hair like me. However semi-permanents, which contain fewer chemicals, are recommended over permanent hair dyes.
You have to eat for two
This is actually a dangerous myth since it may encourage pregnant women to overeat. Adding extra snacks throughout the day and a well-balanced diet is what's typically recommended.
Every woman should breastfeed
This is so false and really comes down to personal preference and the baby's natural reaction to getting fed breast milk. Also, if the mom is taking certain medication she should be strongly discouraged to breastfeed.
You shouldn't drink coffee
Pregnant coffee lovers don't have to give up their daily cup! However, drinking more than a cup a day is discouraged.
Jumping or running will make you go into labor faster
This myth must have been made to keep moms from being physically active! Walking, running and jumping are perfectly healthy and could boost your mood during pregnancy.
Your baby will have a cleft lip if you watch a lunar eclipse
This one is weird, scary and false! This is traced back to the Aztecs who believed pregnant women needed to carry something metal to protect them from lunar eclipses. Not the case, thankfully!
