Pregnancy Myths

Pregnancy can be a very exciting time in your life, but it is important to know that it comes with great responsibility⁽³⁴⁾. Bringing a child into the world is a lifelong commitment. You will need time, energy and resources to be able to properly care for and support your child as they grow and develop⁽³⁴⁾.

MYTH:

The shape or size of a pregnant person's abdomen can determine the baby's gender.

FACT:

The position in which a baby is carried during pregnancy, as well as the shape and size of the abdomen, depend on the muscles and fat that are found around the abdomen, one's posture, and the placement of the fetus.

MYTH:

If a pregnant person has heartburn, the baby will have a lot of hair when it is born.

FACT:

Heartburn is a common symptom for many who are pregnant, and is not related to the amount of hair a baby has when they are born.

MYTH:

Physical activity and exercise during your period can create more severe cramps

FACT:

Exercise can actually relieve pain and bloating caused by menstruation and dysmenorrhea. This is because when exercising, your body releases a hormone called serotonin. This hormone will make you feel better and happier.

MYTH:

If your parent's pregnancy and delivery was smooth and easy, you will also have a smooth and easy pregnancy and delivery.

FACT:

The level of "smoothness" or "difficulty" of a pregnancy does not get passed on from a parent to their child.

This type of outcome will be affected by the pregnant person's lifestyle, diet, health and placement of the baby in the uterus.

MYTH:

Having sexual intercourse when pregnant can harm the baby.

FACT:

Having sex during pregnancy will not harm the baby, unless a doctor tells you otherwise. The fetus is well protected in the uterus.

If you do have sex, make sure to use a condom or make sure that both you and your partner do not have an STI, as this could have negative health consequences for yourself and the baby.