Pregnancy is often a time where a mother may be overwhelmed with information and advice from many different parties. Many women have heard a great deal of pregnancy myths and old wives tales. Sometimes it is hard to tell these myths from the actual facts. Below is a list of the top 4 pregnancy myths that are floating around today, with the scientific answer described after the myth.



1. Apart from an ultrasound, there is no magical way to determine the sex of your baby - Some people will tell you that you can determine the sex of your baby in a variety of different ways. Some common myths of determining the sex of your baby include if you are carrying your baby high or low, by performing a urine test or depending on your cravings. In reality, none of these things can help you determine the sex of your baby. The only way to determine the actual sex of your baby is to have an ultrasound.

2. Eating for two - Some women use the eating for 2 myth to mean that they can eat as much as 2 adults would. In reality, your not eating for 2 adults. Doctors recommend a mother may only need to increase calories by around 300-400 calories per day to accommodate for the growing baby. This means that some women may only gain a little weight, whilst women that are already slightly overweight may either stay the same weight or actually lose some weight whilst pregnant.

3. Alcohol and pregnancy - Some recent information has come out claiming it is ok to have a few alcoholic drinks whilst pregnant. In reality, it is never acceptable to drink alcohol when pregnant. Alcohol can have many severe and debilitating affects on your growing baby. But don't worry if you have had a big night and find out you are pregnant a few weeks later. The majority of alcohol damage to your baby occurs from frequent episodes of binge drinking rather than just a one off case.

4. Household appliances - Some women have been avoiding certain household appliances for fear of harming their developing baby. Microwaves, computers and the humble television are a few of the appliances concerned. In reality, science has shown the radiation produced from these devices is miniscule.

With these tips in mind, you will now be able to set people straight when they hand out pregnancy advice. If you are at all concerned however with your babies development, please visit your doctor to obtain professional advice.