20 Most Common Pregnancy Myths: Is There Any Truth in Them?

Now that you’re pregnant, suddenly, everyone starts giving you advice and sharing their own beliefs about what’s best for you and your baby. And sure, while the support is lovely, it’s the common pregnancy myths you need to be a little wary of.

For the most part, these are harmless old wives' tales that nobody takes too seriously.

But if you’re constantly being told the same thing, it’s hard not to start wondering if there is any truth behind them.

That's why we're here to debunk the most common (and ancient) tales, so you can have the healthiest, safest pregnancy possible. Let's get into it.

Myths in Pregnancy: Old Wives' Tales

We're sure you've all heard of old wives' tales. They're superstitions, traditions, and ancient beliefs passed down through generations, mainly by women, to the present day.

Many people to this day believe in old wives' tales, but some can actually be pretty harmful, especially in pregnancy.

While some can be convincing, it's worth remembering that there isn't any actual scientific evidence based on the tales themselves.

If You Have Heartburn, Your Baby Will be Born with a Full Head of Hair

Of course, mums who give birth to babies with full heads of hair can also suffer from heartburn, but that doesn't mean there's a direct correlation.

While some studies suggest there is a little bit of truth to this old wives' tale, it's likely that it's hormones causing heartburn, and in turn, causing foetal hair growth.

However, a foetus's hair doesn't directly cause heartburn to the mumma-to-be.

Craving Ice Means You're Lacking Nutrients

Craving ice (pagophagia) can be linked to iron deficiency, but this isn't a guarantee, and you should speak to your doctor if you have concerns.

Pregnancy can bring a lot of weird and wonderful cravings, even ice, so it shouldn't be too much cause for concern.

Yes, you heard that right – not that we actually have that many eclipses.

Don't worry, this one is a definite myth.

But if you believe in your superstitions (we all dabble), in ancient times, women believed that if they touched their bump during an eclipse, the baby would get facial deformities or birthmarks.

Of course, there is no scientific evidence for this, so if you do happen to be pregnant during an eclipse, we don’t think you should worry.

If the Baby's Movements Slow Down, Labour is Near

This definitely isn't a reliable sign of labour. In fact, you should feel your baby's movements right up until labour.

If you think their movement has slowed or changed in any way, it's suggested you contact your GP or doctor, just to be on the safe side.

You Shouldn't Raise Your Arms Above Your Head, Because the Umbilical Cord Can Wrap Around the Baby's Head

While it is possible for the umbilical cord to become wrapped around your baby's head, this is common and wouldn't be caused by you stretching.

The umbilical cord is capable of handling movement, and it's more likely to move around from the baby's movements, not your own.

So, if you love your morning stretches, rest assured, they can continue.

Pregnancy Myths for Gender Prediction

Every new parent-to-be loves a little game of gender prediction before their 20-week scan, their gender reveal party, or even until they find out at the birth.

One of the best parts of pregnancy is thinking about the little one you're about to meet, so predicting the gender can be a fun way to get excited for your newborn.

However, while these myths can be fun to think about, they're not accurate and shouldn't be taken literally until you've had it confirmed by a doctor.

The worst thing you can do is decorate your baby ‘boy's’ nursery, because your bump was low throughout your pregnancy, to then give birth to a baby girl…

A High Bump Means a Girl, a Low Bump Means a Boy

While this could ring true, there isn't really a correlation between the baby's gender and how your bump appears.

Your high or low bump will be down to the abdominal muscles and the baby's positioning.

Cold Feet During Pregnancy Means You're Having a Boy

This is another one of those old wives' tales we talked about earlier. While you might have cold feet throughout your pregnancy and give birth to a boy, the two aren't related.

There's no scientific evidence behind this one. If you have cold feet, it's likely down to hormonal changes and fluctuations, instead of being among the signs of a boy in pregnancy.

If You Have Bad Morning Sickness, You're Having a Girl

While some studies support this theory, it's widely said there is no correlation between the levels of morning sickness and the gender of your baby.

Hormonal changes are the main culprit for morning sickness, and if you're really struggling, you could try some natural remedies or speak to a health professional.

If the Dad Gains Weight, You're Having a Girl

Baby girl signs are common, but they’re not necessarily scientifically correct, and this one sure isn’t one of them.

If the father-to-be gains weight when their partner is expecting, there could be many reasons for this, including:

• Stress
• Couvade syndrome (also known as sympathetic pregnancy, which is when the partner experiences some pregnancy symptoms)
• Change in lifestyle

Swinging a Ring on a String Over Your Bump Can Predict the Baby's Sex

This fun little game is just a superstition, but it's fun to do at gender reveals or with your partner to see what it comes up with.

If the ring swings back and forth, it's a boy, and if it circles, it's a girl.

But truthfully, the results are random.

Pregnancy Lifestyle Myths

There is tons of misinformation on how you should change your lifestyle when you're pregnant, which is understandably confusing for mums-to-be.

That's why we're here to clarify common queries for first-time pregnant mums.

You Can't Exercise During Pregnancy

This one definitely isn't true, and actually, exercise is encouraged during pregnancy as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Most exercise is safe unless advised by your doctor or midwife, and you can continue with your usual routine.

Having a Bath or Getting in a Hot Tub Will Harm the Baby

Warm baths are acceptable, as long as they aren't too hot and don't make your body temperature rise excessively. You should err on the side of caution, though, and avoid them if it brings you unnecessary worry.

The hot tub pregnancy myth is also related, because, as long as the water doesn't raise your body temperature too much, you can still enjoy your home hot tub or spa break.

However, the NHS recommends being cautious, particularly in the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy.

You Can't Have Sex While Pregnant

For most women, sex is safe while pregnant, unless a health professional advises against it.

Pregnant women have fluctuating hormones, so sex might seriously be on your mind. Remember, it's okay to give in to your desires.

However, if you have a huge bump, it might be a little awkward.

Flying During Pregnancy is Dangerous

In most pregnancies, air travel is totally safe, especially before 36 weeks. You might be a little uncomfortable, but safe nonetheless.

If your health professional advises against it, of course, listen to them.

But if you've been given the green light, enjoy that babymoon!

Stretch Marks Can Be Totally Avoided with Creams

Creams can improve skin elasticity, but genetics play the biggest role in whether you get stretch marks or not.

Stretch mark products, like Bio Oil, are mainly preventative measures. To reduce your chances of getting big stretch marks, you should apply your creams or oils before they appear.

But remember, stretch marks are a sign of new life, and they should be admired. They aren't something to feel bad about. Have confidence in your mum body – it's doing an amazing thing.

Food & Drink Myths During Pregnancy

Food and drink are biggies during pregnancy because there are many grey areas and blurry lines. It can be a bit of a minefield.

If you're a foodie or can't function without your morning cuppa, there are probably some things you should know while you're on your pregnancy journey. Let's get into our final section.

You Need to Eat for Two

While you might want to use being pregnant as an excuse to eat your body weight in crisps, surprisingly, that's not actually advised.

When people talk about being pregnant, they often talk about 'eating for two', but, according to the NHS, “You’ll need an extra 200 calories a day – that’s the same as two slices of wholemeal toast and margarine.”

We know, shocking, right?

Having said that, treating yourself every so often is perfectly fine. Sometimes you just have to give in to those pregnancy cravings.

Caffeine is a Total No-No

Moderate caffeine (under 200mg per day – about one coffee) is generally considered safe, so you don't have to completely cut it out if you don't want to.

The NHS has some great information on food and drink. We recommend checking this out, so you can be on the safe side.

Spicy Food Can Induce Labour

There's actually no scientific evidence that spicy food will induce full labour, even if you really fancy a curry.

According to Henry Ford Health, spicy food, to some degree, can cause gastrointestinal distress for anyone, not just pregnant women. This can sometimes stimulate uterine contractions, but it's unlikely to bring on labour.

You Can't Eat Cheese

Cheese lovers, don't fear, you can still indulge. You just have to know what cheese is safe and what cheese isn't.

Some soft cheeses are off-limits, like unpasteurised ones, but many are perfectly safe when pasteurised.

Here is a list of cheeses unsafe to consume while pregnant:

• Soft, ripened goat's cheese
• Brie
• Camembert
• Blue cheese or gorgonzola (unless cooked until steaming hot)

Drinking a Little Bit of Alcohol is Okay

Nope. This isn't true, and anyone who tells you that hasn't done their research properly.

The effects of alcohol on an unborn baby can be extremely dangerous, and it isn't recommended to even risk just one glass of wine.

Final Words: Do Your Research During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time filled with joy and anticipation, but it also comes with responsibility. So while some myths can be fun to entertain, doing your research is the most important thing.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice if you're ever worried or have questions, and avoid relying solely on myths or unverified information.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so what works for one person may not necessarily apply to another.

Stay proactive, ask questions, and prioritise your well-being throughout this special journey!

If you’re looking for more advice on pregnancy and all things babies, head to our Sleep Talk Blog, where we have tons of helpful information from the experts here at Snüz!

Happy pregnancy, soon-to-be parents!