Written by Pamela Udejimba

Pregnancy and childbirth are beautiful and transforming experiences, but they are also subject to various misconceptions and myths. To ensure that appropriate information is communicated, it is essential to debunk some of the common myths surrounding pregnancy and childbirth.
Myth 1: You cannot exercise when pregnant.
Fact: Exercise during pregnancy is not only safe but also helpful when done properly. Regular exercise can help you lose weight, improve your mood, boost your energy, and support your general well-being. However, it is critical to speak with a healthcare physician and follow appropriate exercise guidelines for pregnancy.
Myth 2: During pregnancy, you should eat for two.
While your nutritional demands increase during pregnancy, you do not need to consume twice as much. The emphasis should be on maintaining a well-balanced and nutritious diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The importance of quality over quantity cannot be overemphasized.
Myth 3: You can tell the gender of a baby by the shape of the baby bump.
Fact: The shape and size of the baby bump are determined by several factors, including the mothers body shape, muscle tone, and the baby position. It has nothing to do with the baby gender. Only medical examinations, such as ultrasound or genetic testing, can reliably establish the baby gender.
Myth 4: Eating spicy foods or having sex might induce labour.
While there is some circumstantial evidence that certain activities may aid initiate labour, there is no scientific evidence that spicy food or sexual intercourse may induce labour. Labour is a complex process that is primarily controlled by hormonal and physiological factors, and it usually begins when the baby is ready.
Myth 5: Caesarean births are less painful and need less recovery time than vaginal births.
Caesarean births are major procedures with their own set of risks and complications. While caesarean sections may be necessary in some cases, vaginal births are often connected with shorter recovery periods and reduced risks. Each person pain and recovery time will be different, so it is important to discuss birth options with a health professional.
These are just a few of the numerous misconceptions about pregnancy and childbirth. To debunk myths and gain a better understanding, it is important to seek reliable information from healthcare professionals, attend prenatal classes, and engage in open discussions with other parents.
Please share your comments and feedback on these myths or any other misconceptions you have encountered during your pregnancy or childbirth journey. Let us build awareness and foster a supportive society to ensure that accurate information is available to all expectant parents.