You’re finally pregnant after so many years of trying! And not only did it change your life completely, but you’re also full of questions. All the fears and expectations generated by a challenge as great as motherhood were mixed, because protecting that wonderful being that grows in you has become the most important thing.
You’re anxious and any recommendation you receive is welcome: myths and beliefs from friends, aunts and grandmothers who will do everything possible to make sure your baby is born healthy and happy. There are so many different ideas that you don’t know which one is true.
That if the belly is round it will be a girl, that be careful not to stay with cravings because this will affect the baby, that if you have heartburn it is because your baby will be born with a lot of hair and that you don’t even think about seeing an eclipse because you will regret it.
Read the following recommendations carefully, so you can clarify doubts and check how true these myths are that you have surely already heard.
Myth 1: “During pregnancy you will have to eat for two”
While it’s true that your metabolism speeds up during pregnancy, and you’ll need an extra amount of nutrients, it’s not true that you have to eat for two. It is not good to gain a lot of weight, as this can generate other complications such as hypertension or gestational diabetes. Some nutrients are essential: iron, folic acid and calcium supplements, especially in the last months of pregnancy. Seek the advice of a nutrition expert and you will have peace of mind that both you and your baby are feeding properly.
Myth 2: “It is forbidden to dye your hair during pregnancy”
It is very important that you take care of yourself, especially during the first three months of pregnancy, the stage in which the baby is forming, as any external stimulus could affect the normal gestation process. Some hair dyes have chemicals that are absorbed through the skin and can affect it, as well as other substances such as antibiotics, alcohol and cigarettes. Before using a dye or using any of these substances, consult your doctor.
Myth 3: Don’t stay craving because you can hurt the baby!
You’ve probably heard many stories of pregnant women eating dirt, brick, and other equally exotic things. According to the myth, being left with unsatisfied cravings could bring physical problems for the baby, but this is totally false. What is true is that if you are deficient in an important nutrient, your body will let you know and that is why you will feel the need to eat some specific foods. If this happens, consult your gynecologist to get a check-up and identify the cause of these cravings.
Myth 4: “In pregnancy you can’t travel”
All pregnancies are different and travel restrictions are usually made to patients who have high-risk pregnancies. If this is not your case, don’t worry, if you travel by plane or car you will not have any problem. What you should avoid is the use of boats, speedboats or horseback riding, as strong vibrations can cause pain and even generate contractions. If your trip is by plane and you must go through X-rays, notify the staff in charge of your pregnancy. Metal detectors pose no risk.
Myth 5: “Your baby doesn’t like strong smells”
It’s not that you can’t inhale smells like soaps and perfumes, you have to be careful with certain substances that are toxic to anyone, not just a pregnant woman. It is recommended that you do not inhale the gases expelled by bleaches or the smell of paints with a high lead content, as they can have a negative effect on you or your baby.
