Lifestyle Myths Of Pregnancy

Kareena Kapoor Khan proudly walked the ramp with her baby bump. Pregnancy could never stop actress Shilpa Shetty from following her fitness and exercise routine. Women in the corporate world work at par with men even during pregnancy, barring all the discomforts that they go through. Women like Serena Williams have won accolades at Wimbledon with a baby in their womb. Gone are the days when myths like “a pregnant woman should slow down or only take rest” were enforced or prevalent. There is nothing that you cannot do in pregnancy. The mantra is “ Do it in Moderation with your Doctor’s permission”.

While it is a fact that with pregnancy comes responsibility and a wake up call on health, nutrition and lifestyle changes, you must not stop living your life. Let us break some myths on lifestyle during pregnancy and bring the truth and facts in forefront so that you can live a normal healthy life while your baby grows well in your womb.

Myth #1: Pregnant women shouldn’t eat sweets.

Fact: Women may crave sweets in pregnancy. It is OK to indulge in sweets as long as you are doing the right exercises to burn those extra calories and eating a balanced diet. Again the key is to eat in moderation and not in excess.

Myth #2: If you don’t usually exercise, you shouldn’t start during pregnancy.

Fact: This is one of the most known myths of pregnancy. Pregnancy is actually an ideal time to start an exercise program even if you’ve never really exercised before. A moderate exercise or activity for approximately 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week is recommended for pregnant women. Walking, swimming or yoga in moderation are a couple of recommended exercises during pregnancy.

Myth #3: Do not use computers during pregnancy

Fact: Many pregnant mothers are worried that the low-level electromagnetic fields (non-ionizing radiation) produced by computer monitors could cause miscarriage or harm an unborn baby. It is heartening to know that studies have shown no evidence that this is the case. However, avoid sitting in front of a computer for hours at a time because you may experience worsening of your backache.

MYTH #4 : “I have to eat for two during my pregnancy.”

Fact: “Eating for two” may cause you to gain too much weight. Your baby needs far fewer calories to be healthy than you need. Gaining too much weight during pregnancy is not good for your health and can be risky for your baby’s health too. However, eating a well balanced nutritious diet and intake of supplements like Mother’s Horlicks, enriched with 100% essential nutrients is recommended to ensure a sound weight and healthy baby.

Myth #5: Pregnant woman should not watch horror movies

Fact: Watching horror movies in pregnancy is more of a cultural taboo. There is no scientific proof to show its harmful effects on the baby. But fear would evoke the adrenaline gush that can result in increased blood pressure. Loud noises do not usually affect your fetus as he/she is surrounded by amniotic fluid and buffered from the noises. The key is to discontinue if not comfortable.

Myth #6: Avoid travelling during pregnancy.

Fact: While a bumpy road travel is not what you want in the first trimester to prevent jerks that can lead to a miscarriage, it is absolutely safe to travel from second trimester till 36 weeks of gestation if your pregnancy does not have any complications.

Myth #7: Pregnant woman shouldn’t consume fish and fish oil.

Fact: If you are not a vegan, you should not believe in this myth. The fact is that fish and shellfish are an important part of a healthy diet. Fish and shellfish contain high-quality protein and other essential nutrients like DHA, are low in saturated fat, and contain omega-3 fatty acids. However, some fish and shellfish contain higher levels of mercury that may harm an unborn baby’s developing nervous system like king mackerel. Mother’s Horlicks with DHA and 25 vital nutrients is a great supplement for women who do not eat fish.

Myth #8: Avoid playing sports during pregnancy

Fact: This is not true. If you have no complications, then playing sports is highly recommended. It has multiple health benefits for both mom and baby. However, you must not indulge in sports that can make you fall or give you jerks. Again playing in moderation, within the limits of exhaustion and staying hydrated is the way to ensure you don’t harm yourself or your baby.

Myth #9: Sex in pregnancy can hurt your baby.

Fact: Babies are very well protected in the amniotic sac. Your partner will not be able to reach and harm your baby since your cervix is closed to prevent any harm to your baby. However, do talk to your Doctor about having sex especially in the first and third trimester.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey. Life takes a big leap once your baby comes into this world. Make the best of your pregnancy and never consider it as an excuse to pull yourself down from leading a happy life.

Disclaimer: It is important to consult with your Doctor before deciding the dose and content of nutrition before consumption.

The views, opinions and recommendations expressed in this article are solely those of the author and intended as an educational  aid

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