Pregnancy Myths

PREGNANCY MYTHS: WHAT'S ACTUALLY TRUE? 

Pregnancy comes with a ton of unsolicited advice, old wives’ tales, and Google searches that can send you into a spiral. Everyone seems to have an opinion on what you should or shouldn’t do, what to expect, and even what your cravings say about your baby’s gender. So, let’s break down some of the biggest pregnancy myths so you can focus on what actually matters—feeling your best and preparing to meet your baby.

1. YOU HAVE TO EAT FOR TWO

Ah, the classic excuse to double up on dessert (we’ve all been tempted). But the reality? You don’t need to literally eat for two. In the second and third trimesters, you only need about 300-500 extra calories per day—think a handful of nuts and a banana, not a second full meal. Instead of quantity, focus on quality: nutrient-dense foods that fuel both you and your baby.

2. YOU CAN'T EXERCISE WHILE PREGNANT

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, staying active is actually one of the best things you can do for yourself during pregnancy. Exercise can help with everything from reducing back pain to improving mood and even making labor a little easier. Just stick to low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, and listen to your body.

3. MORNING SICKNESS ONLY HAPPENS IN THE MORNING

If only! Morning sickness can strike at any time of day (or night). For some moms-to-be, it’s a fleeting inconvenience; for others, it’s an all-day battle. Eating small, frequent meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding strong smells can help, but if nausea becomes severe, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.

4. YOU HAVE TO CUT OUT CAFFEINE COMPLETELY

Good news, coffee lovers! You don’t have to go caffeine-free, just keep it in moderation. Experts generally recommend keeping intake under 200 mg per day (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee). If you’re sensitive to caffeine, consider switching to half-caf or tea for a gentler boost.

5. SPICY FOOD WILL PUT YOU INTO LABOR

There’s no scientific proof that spicy food can send you into labor (sorry to anyone who downed a plate of hot wings at 39 weeks hoping to get things moving). That said, it can cause heartburn, which is a whole different kind of discomfort.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Pregnancy is full of surprises, and while advice (solicited or not) will always be around, the best thing you can do is trust your body, listen to your doctor, and do what feels right for you. Some myths make for fun stories, but at the end of the day, your journey is unique.