As an OB-GYN who’s walked this journey with over 1,200 Indian women, I’ve made it my quiet mission to gently untangle pregnancy myths and facts. Honestly, between hormonal chaos and your body turning into something totally unfamiliar, you don’t need extra stress thrown in by superstitions.
Let’s be real, pregnancy in India doesn’t just come with cravings and mood swings. It brings a full baarat of advice. Some helpful, some confusing, and some… well, straight-up strange. From your mother-in-law’s rasoi rules to that one aunty who insists your baby’s gender depends on how much you’re glowing, the unsolicited gyaan never ends.
Understanding the difference between pregnancy myths and facts isn’t just about gathering knowledge. It’s about emotional ease. When you know what’s actually true, you feel lighter, calmer, and honestly, less likely to panic every time someone gives you a random warning.
I know this isn’t something you find in textbooks. But after years of practice, it’s always that one moment that stands out. A nervous, wide-eyed mom-to-be leans in and whispers, “Is this true? Should I stop eating papaya?” That’s where the shift begins. That’s where facts start doing their magic.
Top 5 Pregnancy Beliefs That Need Busting
Here’s a quick table that busts five of the most common myths I hear:
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Don’t go out during an eclipse | Eclipses have no scientific link to pregnancy issues |
| Papaya causes miscarriage | Only unripe papaya in large amounts; ripe is safe |
| Sleep only on your left side | Left is ideal, but any side is fine as long as you’re comfy |
| Saffron milk makes baby fair | Skin tone is genetic; saffron is optional and safe |
| Belly shape predicts gender | It’s just muscle and body type, not gender-related |
What I Tell My Patients About Pregnancy Myths and Facts
Let me share a real moment from the clinic.
A young mom-to-be came in, visibly upset. Her joint family had given her a proper lecture for eating pineapple. “They said it will burn the baby’s tongue,” she told me, teary-eyed. She hadn’t slept for days. I reassured her that ripe pineapple, in moderation, is absolutely safe. In fact, it helps with digestion. She looked at me, eyes wide with relief, then burst out laughing. That’s what a little truth can do.
Why It Helps to Separate Truth from Tradition
WhatsApp forwards. Nani ke nuskhe. Instagram reels. It’s a jungle out there.
But knowing the difference between pregnancy myths and facts? That’s power. It gives you the ability to make informed decisions, not fearful ones. You start doing what’s right for you, not what worked for someone’s cousin’s bhabhi.
Honestly, I wish every mom-to-be got a crash course in pregnancy myths and facts even before that second pink line shows up. So much mental space would be freed up.
By the way, if you’re a first-time mom and wondering where to even begin, check out this guide we created just for you. it’s full of emotional honesty and practical advice.
And for science-backed info on what to eat or avoid, I always recommend the Mayo Clinic’s pregnancy nutrition guide. Super helpful, especially when you’re tired of the food police.
FAQs on Pregnancy Myths and Truths
Q1: Is it true I shouldn’t wash my hair during pregnancy?
A: Nope. That’s just another outdated idea. Just make sure you don’t slip in the bathroom.
Q2: Do spicy foods harm the baby?
A: Unless it gives you severe acidity, enjoy your mirch masala. No problem at all.
Q3: Can stress harm my baby?
A: Long-term stress isn’t ideal, but one emotional breakdown? You’re still a great mom. Take it easy.
Every time someone throws a “fact” at you that feels more scary than helpful, pause. Breathe. Ask yourself, “Is this backed by science or just something we’ve always been told?” When you trust what you know, and not just what you’re told, it shows. In your posture, in your peace, in the way you protect your joy.
That’s the kind of pregnancy I want for you.
Disclaimer
This article is here to inform, not to prescribe. Every pregnancy has its own story. And your body deserves personalised care. As a doctor, I always remind my patients to run anything they read online past me before following it. And I’d love for you to do the same. Please talk to your doctor before making any decisions based on this article. You deserve advice that fits your life.
Meet Dr. Sonia Iyer — a seasoned gynecologist, mom of two, and trusted voice for women navigating the beautiful chaos of pregnancy and early motherhood. With over 11 years of clinical experience and a deep understanding of real-life parenting, she brings clear, compassionate, and expert-backed advice to every blog she writes.
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