myth (noun)
- A traditional story, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining some natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events. Similar: folk tale, story, folk story, legend, tale, fable.
Let’s talk about myths, shall we?
Classical myths are more than just old stories, they serve a real purpose. These sacred tales help explain the world and the human experience. Myths can answer timeless questions and serve as a compass to each generation.
Then there are the myths we are talking about here, which are really what would be called “old wives’ tales.” Why they aren’t called “old husband’s tales” is a discussion for another time.
Every day, we are bombarded with information from so many sources, the news, the internet, social media, strangers in an elevator, the list goes on and on.
But when it comes to your health and pregnancy, how do you know if the information you’re getting is accurate?
Since we were kids we have heard that “An apple a day” keeps people like me away or “don’t swim for an hour after eating…” and so on.
Below is an article by Jenna Jonaitis that I really liked, and I wanted to share it with you about six pregnancy myths we can put to bed.
Pregnancy Myth 1: You can’t eat seafood
The mercury levels in fish make them a talking point for pregnancies. Most fish, according to the FDA Trusted Source, are safe if they’re not consumed in abundance.
Some of the safe choices include:
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- canned tuna
- salmon
- catfish
- crab
The FDA has a full list here.
There’s a lot of benefits to seafood, like healthy fats which aid in a baby’s development. Just cap your seafood intake to 340 grams a week, and avoid raw sushi to limit your risk of exposure to certain bacteria.
Fish to avoid:
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- shark
- swordfish
- king mackerel
- tuna (albacore and bigeye)
- marlin
- tilefish from the Gulf of Mexico
- orange roughly
Pregnancy Myth 2: You should avoid exercise and exertion
If you’re healthy and have the go-ahead from your physician, it’s safe to continue doing most types of exercise, says the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Some risks are associated with certain exercises — like horseback riding and contact sports — but that doesn’t mean you should avoid physical activity altogether. Regular exercise is extremely beneficial for both mom and baby, and can even alleviate pain points of pregnancy.
Recommended exercise when pregnant by trimester
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- First trimester: Pilates, yoga, walking, swimming, running, weight training, biking
- Second trimester: walking, yoga, swimming, running
- Third trimester: walking, jogging, aqua sports, low-impact, toning
Pregnancy Myth 3: You’re not allowed to enjoy hot baths
Based on an old tale that people who are pregnant should avoid heat stress, many still believe they can’t soak in a hot bath.
New recommendations, however, state that hot baths and exercise are safe during pregnancy, as long as your body temperature doesn’t go above 102.2°F.
Pregnancy Myth 4: You’re not allowed to have sex
YES! You’re also allowed to have and enjoy sex! It’s safe and won’t hurt the baby. Learn which positions are the best.
Pregnancy Myth 5: You can’t drink coffee
While it was previously believed that caffeine could cause a miscarriage, research shows that one to two cups per day is entirely safe. So no need to ditch your morning latte as your go-to energy boost!
Pregnancy Myth 6: You’re eating for two
The popular mantra “Go ahead, you’re eating for two!” can cause extra weight gain if we take it to heart. Instead, staying within the recommended range for weight gain will make weight loss easier post-birth and give you increased energy throughout your pregnancy.
Remember, everyone’s journey with pregnancy is different. Keep these tips in mind. At the end of the day, don’t forget to listen to your body.
About Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi
As one of the nation’s leading OB-GYNs, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi offers the very best in gynecological and obstetric care. Together with her warm professional team, Dr. Aliabadi supports women through all phases of life. She fosters a special one-on-one relationship between patient and doctor.
We invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please click here to make an appointment or call us at (844) 863-6700.
We take our patients’ safety very seriously. Our facility’s Covid-19 patient safety procedures exceed all CDC and World Health Organization recommendations. Masks are required in our office at all times during the coronavirus pandemic.
The practice of Dr. Thais Aliabadi and the Outpatient Hysterectomy Center is conveniently located to patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. We are near Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles, to name a few.
Jenna Jonaitis is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in The Washington Post, HealthyWay, and SHAPE, among other publications. She traveled with her husband for 18 months — farming in Japan, studying Spanish in Madrid, volunteering in India, and hiking through the Himalayas. She’s always in search of wellness in mind, body, and spirit. Read her full article at www.fitpregnancy.com.