Maternity Myths Debunked: What Your OB-GYN Wants You to Know

Mga karaniwang mito tungkol sa pagbubuntis na nililinaw ng mga dalubhasang doktor

Pregnancy is one of life’s most exciting and transformative journeys, but it can also come with overwhelming advice from friends, family, social media, and traditional beliefs.

Some guidance is helpful. Some is not. In this guide, we separate common pregnancy myths from medical facts, with evidence-backed information that obstetricians and gynecologists want every expecting parent to know.

Professional medical advice should always take precedence over traditional beliefs or anecdotal experiences.

Common Pregnancy Myths vs. Medical Facts

Myth #1: “Kailangan kumain para sa dalawa” (You Need to Eat for Two)

The Truth: While pregnancy does increase your nutritional needs, most women only need about 300 extra calories per day—roughly equivalent to a banana with peanut butter or a small healthy snack.

Your OB-GYN recommends focusing on nutrient density rather than quantity.

“The idea of ‘eating for two’ often leads to excessive weight gain, which can increase risks for gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and complications during delivery,” explains Dr. Ballon-Hennings. “Focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains instead of simply eating more.”

Myth #2: “Hindi pwedeng mag-exercise habang buntis” (You Can’t Exercise While Pregnant)

The Truth: For most pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancies, regular moderate exercise is not only safe but beneficial.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly.

Benefits of prenatal exercise include:

• Reduced back pain and swelling
• Improved mood and energy levels
• Better sleep quality
• Faster postpartum recovery
• Decreased risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia

Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce back pain, and improve mood and energy levels. It can also make labor easier and speed up recovery after childbirth.

Moderate activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are typically safe, but always consult with your healthcare provider about exercise plans.

Myth #3: “Morning Sickness Only Happens in the Morning”

The Truth: Despite its name, “morning sickness” can strike at any time of the day or night, especially during the first trimester.

Many pregnant women experience nausea and vomiting throughout the day, not just in the morning. This is likely caused by the surge in hormones during early pregnancy, although the root cause is unknown.

Para sa mga nanay na nahihirapan sa morning sickness: Eating frequent small meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding strong smells that trigger nausea can help manage symptoms.

Myth #4: “Ang pagkahilig sa mga pagkain ay makakaapekto sa itsura ng sanggol” (Cravings Affect the Baby’s Appearance)

The Truth: Known as “paglilihi” in Filipino culture, this myth suggests that what a pregnant woman craves can influence the baby’s physical features.

For example, craving chocolate or dark-colored food supposedly gives the baby darker skin, while milk or light-colored foods contribute to lighter skin.

In reality, food cravings have no effect on your baby’s physical appearance. Your baby’s features, including skin color, are determined by genetics.

The best way to see what your baby might look like is through 4D ultrasounds, not by monitoring your cravings.

Myth #5: “Bawal magsuot ng kuwintas o magbalot ng tuwalya sa leeg” (Avoid Wearing Necklaces or Wrapping Towels Around Your Neck)

The Truth: This superstition claims that wearing anything around your neck can cause the umbilical cord to wrap around your baby’s neck. This has no scientific basis.

While it is possible for the umbilical cord to wrap around a baby’s neck, called a nuchal cord, this is caused by the baby’s own movements in the womb and not by external factors like what the mother wears.

Regular prenatal checkups can monitor your baby’s position and development.

Myth #6: “You Should Avoid All Seafood”

The Truth: Some pregnant women think they should steer clear of seafood due to concerns about mercury. However, many types of fish are safe and offer essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for your baby’s brain development.

You can safely eat seafood during pregnancy as long as you avoid high-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.

Salmon, shrimp, catfish, and canned light tuna are great choices that are low in mercury and high in nutrients.

Regular prenatal checkups, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and following your doctor’s guidance will contribute far more to a healthy pregnancy than following superstitions or old wives’ tales.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and personalized care from healthcare professionals is essential for both mother and baby’s well-being.

Always consult with your OB-GYN about any concerns or questions you have during this special journey.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your specific pregnancy needs.