Pregnancy Myths Even Doctors Sometimes Believe (And Why They’re not True)
The Moment I Started Questioning Everything.
I’ll never forget that prenatal appointment. My gynaecologist leaned in and said, 'Be careful with spicy food; it could send you into early labor'.
I blinked. Wait… isn’t that just something my aunties say?
Turns out, even the most well-intentioned medical professionals can pass along pregnancy advice that’s more folklore than fact.
And, if you’ve ever fallen down a Google rabbit hole only to end up more confused, you know how exhausting it is to separate myth from reality.
So let’s clear things up. Because you deserve confidence, not confusion, during this wild and wonderful journey.
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Myth #1: “You’re Eating for Two Now!
The Truth:
Sure, pregnancy cravings don’t ask permission (I do need chips at midnight watching netflix or bubble tea every other day). But doubling your meals? Not necessary.
In fact, first-trimester calorie needs barely change.
By the second trimester, studies have shown that an additional 300-350 calories per day is enough. An extra small meal, like a bowl of fish soup or a kaya toast set does the job.
Overdoing it can lead to unnecessary weight gain, making postpartum recovery tougher.
What Helps Instead:
Focus on nutrient-packed foods. Think proteins, whole grains, and veggies. And if you’re still hungry? Eat. Just tune into your body instead of an old-school "eat for two" mantra.
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Myth #2: Your Baby's Position in the Womb Reveals Their Gender
You’ve probably heard the old wives’ tales. "If the bump is high and carried in front, it’s a boy!" or "Low and wide means a girl!"
In Asia, this myth gets extra creative, with some claiming that baby kicking more on the left side predicts a son or that a fast heartbeat means a daughter.
But here’s the reality:
There’s zero scientific evidence linking fetal position, bump shape, or movement patterns to gender.
These factors are actually influenced by
- Your body type and muscle tone
- Baby’s size and growth stage
- Uterus shape and placental position
- Whether it’s your first pregnancy or not
What Actually Predicts Gender?
Only two methods are medically proven:
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Ultrasound scan (typically at 18–20 weeks)
- Blood tests (like Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), as early as 10 weeks)
What to Do Instead:
Treat old wives’ tales as entertainment, not fact. Since most moms already know their baby’s gender by the end of the first trimester or early second trimester, you can simply smile and say, “That’s a fun guess!” or “I’ve heard so many different theories!”
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Myth #3: “Spicy Food = Instant Labor!
The Truth:
If this were true, mums in Singapore would be chomping down spicy curry or ’mala xiang guo’ as their due date approached. While spicy food might give you heartburn (thanks, pregnancy hormones), there's zero scientific proof it actually starts contractions.
What Helps Instead:
Eat what makes you feel good. If you love spicy food, go for it! Just keep an eye on how your body reacts and avoid it close to bedtime if heartburn is an issue.
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Myth #4: “Pregnant? Better Skip the Gym.
The Truth:
Unless your doctor says otherwise, movement is medicine. Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can ease aches, boost energy, and even help during delivery.
What Helps Instead:
Find what feels good. Gentle strength training, stretching, or even dancing in your living room. Listen to your body, and modify as needed.
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Myth #5: “Breastfeeding Should Feel Effortless.
The Truth:
Newsflash: Just because it’s "natural" doesn’t mean it’s easy. Soreness, latch struggles, and supply worries are normal. Many moms need support (and that’s okay!).
What Helps Instead:
Ask for help early. Lactation consultants are gold. Try experimenting with positions, use nipple cream liberally, and remember: Fed is best.
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Bottom Line: You’ve Got This
Pregnancy advice is everywhere. From your grandma’s old-school tips to conflicting Instagram posts. Even doctors can unintentionally spread outdated ideas.
So take a deep breath. Trust your gut. Seek reliable sources. And above all? Give yourself grace. You’re already doing an incredible job.
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Compiled using information from the following sources: