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Common Pregnancy Myths

There are many common pregnancy myths that are simply not true, and in a world where anyone can publish information online, it is crucial you as an expectant parent are armed with the right tools and information to lead an empowered pregnancy.Ice Water

Common Pregnancy Myths:

  1. Myth 1: "If your baby's movements slow down a good solution to get them moving again is to drink cold ice-water or something fizzy."

    False! This is 100% not true. If you ever present a change in your baby's movements and are told to go home and drink cold water, disregard this advice immediately and DO NOT leave your clinic until you are checked properly.

  2. Myth 2: "If your placenta is at the front you won't be able to feel your baby's movements."

    False. You will be able to feel your baby's movements regardless of where your placenta lies. Get to know your baby's individual pattern and do not compare your pregnancy to others.

  3. Myth 3: "My baby will 'slow down' before being born" as it will 'run out of room to move'.

    This is a giant myth and 100% not true. Babies do not run out of room to move before being born. In fact, your baby's movements will continue to steadily grow stronger up until your due date. 

  4. Myth 4: "I should aim to count 10 kicks a day, right?"

    Whilst counting kicks is a good way to keep track of movements, there is no set number of movements to look out for. Some babies may move 10 times in one day, and others may move 10 times in ten minutes! Baby's can move anywhere between 4 and 400 times in a single hour! It's important to know what is normal for you and your baby, and report any changes on that. 

  5. Myth 5: "When my baby is 'going crazy' this is good, because any increase in movements is good!"

    This is not true. Whilst a steady increase in movements throughout pregnancy generally implies a healthy and growing bub, a sudden rapid increase in movements from your baby's normal pattern can be a warning sign that your baby is in distress. If you feel yourself thinking "my baby is really going crazy today", go and get checked immediately, and do not wait. If you aren't quite sure what to do, trust your instincts and always sit on the side of caution.

  6. Myth 6: Women should avoid sex during pregnancy.

    This is false. Sex has no effect on an otherwise healthy pregnancy and will not 'hurt' your baby! In some circumstances, your health care provider may recommend abstaining from sex if you have a high-risk pregnancy, however for most women sex is okay. If you aren't sure, always speak to your care provider with any questions that are on your mind.

 

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Since 2014 Still Aware has committed to providing safe pregnancy resources for all families worldwide. See our Free Pregnancy Resources page to begin your journey to a safer and more empowered pregnancy. Got a question or want to fact-check something of your own? Do not hesitate to contact Still Aware at hello@stillaware.org. Remember to share this page with anyone you think may need it!