Antenatal care is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy, and it’s important for pregnant women to be aware of the myths and facts surrounding it. There are many myths and misconceptions circulating about antenatal care, so we’ve compiled a list of 8 pregnancy myths and facts every woman needs to read about antenatal care. From the importance of prenatal vitamins to the safety of certain activities during pregnancy, this blog post will help you gain a better understanding of what to expect during antenatal care.
1) Myth: You can’t get pregnant while breastfeeding
This is simply not true. Although breastfeeding does have an impact on ovulation, it is not a reliable form of contraception and should not be used as such. Therefore, it is important for all women to understand the importance of antenatal care, regardless of whether they are breastfeeding or not.
Antenatal care is the medical care that is given to women during pregnancy. This includes check-ups, tests, and scans that help monitor the health of both the mother and the baby. This is an important part of staying healthy and making sure any potential problems are identified early on.
It’s also important to remember that antenatal care isn’t just about physical health – mental health is equally as important. Antenatal care helps identify any emotional or psychological issues that could arise during pregnancy, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
Overall, antenatal care is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy for all women, regardless of whether they are breastfeeding or not. If you’re unsure about anything related to your antenatal care, be sure to speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
2) Myth: Pregnant women shouldn’t lift heavy things
It is a common belief among pregnant women that they should avoid lifting heavy things. However, this is a myth that has been perpetuated by many, and it’s important to understand the truth.
The reality is that lifting light to moderate weights while pregnant is generally safe and can be beneficial to your overall health and wellbeing. In fact, lifting weights during pregnancy may help to reduce back pain, improve posture, and even improve your labor experience.
Before starting any kind of weight training program while pregnant, it is important to talk to your doctor about your individual situation and any risks or concerns. This will ensure that you are exercising safely and correctly for both you and your baby.
Remember, the most important thing is that you listen to your body and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
3) Myth: You shouldn’t drink caffeine while pregnant
It’s a common misconception that drinking caffeine while pregnant is dangerous. While it is true that pregnant women should limit their caffeine consumption, there is no evidence to suggest that completely avoiding caffeine is necessary.
If it is hard to ditch the caffeine cravings, we recommend that pregnant women limit their intake of caffeine to less than 200 mg per day. This is the equivalent of one 8-ounce (235 ml) cup of coffee, or two 12-ounce (350 ml) cans of soda. Drinking more than this amount has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.
It is important to remember that all sources of caffeine should be monitored. This includes coffee, tea, energy drinks, soda, chocolate, and any other caffeinated products. Also, as with any other food or drink, moderation is key.
4) Myth: You should eat for two during pregnancy
There is a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to pregnancy and antenatal care. One of the most common myths is that you should be eating for two during your pregnancy. While it is important to ensure you are getting the right nutrition, this doesn’t mean you should double your calorie intake.
Eating too much can put your health at risk, as well as the health of your baby. Instead, focus on healthy eating habits that provide your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals it needs to support the growth of your baby. Your doctor will be able to help you create an eating plan that is both nutritious and beneficial for your pregnancy.
It is also important to remember that regular antenatal care is vital to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Your doctor will help monitor your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing throughout the pregnancy, helping to detect any potential issues before they become serious. Regular checkups and antenatal visits will help keep you and your baby safe, so make sure to stay on top of your appointments! Book one with us today.
5) Myth: You do not need to take folic acid during pregnancy
When it comes to antenatal care during pregnancy, one of the most important things to remember is to take a daily folic acid supplement. Folic acid helps prevent certain birth defects, including neural tube defects. It’s also important for pregnant women to get plenty of other nutrients and vitamins, like iron and calcium.
It’s recommended that all pregnant women take a daily prenatal vitamin with 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid in it. The best way to ensure you’re getting the right amount of folic acid is to talk to your doctor and ask them what’s best for you.
In addition to taking a prenatal vitamin and eating a healthy diet, there are other important components to antenatal care. Regular visits to your doctor are essential to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby. During these visits, they will monitor your health, your baby’s development, and answer any questions you have.
Your doctor can also help you make important decisions about labor and delivery, such as when to start labour, which type of delivery you prefer, and what type of pain relief you may want during labour.
It’s also important to take care of yourself emotionally during pregnancy. Talk to friends, family, and your doctor about any concerns you have and make sure to rest when needed.
The most important thing is that you take care of yourself and your baby by following your doctor or midwife’s advice for antenatal care. Be sure to take your prenatal vitamins, eat healthy, and attend regular checkups with your healthcare provider. Doing so will ensure you and your baby remain safe and healthy throughout your pregnancy.
6) Myth: You should not gain too much weight during pregnancy
Gaining weight during pregnancy is a normal and necessary process. Most women will need to gain anywhere from 10 to 55 kilos throughout the course of their pregnancy. This weight gain can help your baby to develop properly and it is important to monitor your weight gain to ensure that you are on track with your health goals.
It’s important to keep in mind that every woman’s body is different, so the amount of weight you should gain can vary depending on your pre-pregnancy weight, body type, and other factors. Additionally, the type of weight gain matters as well. The majority of your weight gain should come from healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated throughout the day.
If you are concerned about gaining too much or too little weight during your pregnancy, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. They can provide advice and guidance on the best ways to ensure that you are getting the right amount of nourishment for you and your growing baby.
7) Myth: You should not exercise during pregnancy
It is a common misconception that pregnant women should avoid exercise. However, the truth is that regular physical activity during pregnancy can be beneficial both to the mother and to the developing baby. Exercise can help reduce back pain, improve sleep, and even help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and other complications.
A study revealed that pregnant women who exercised regularly were less likely to experience gestational diabetes, had higher birth weights and were more likely to give birth vaginally. Additionally, exercising during pregnancy can reduce stress levels, improve mood, and even boost energy levels.
If you’re pregnant, talk to your doctor about what kind of exercise is safe for you. It’s important to choose activities that are low-impact, such as swimming, walking, or yoga. You should also listen to your body and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort.
By taking the time to engage in physical activity during pregnancy, you’ll not only improve your own health, but also your baby’s!
8) Myth: You needn’t see a doctor regularly during pregnancy
When it comes to taking care of yourself during pregnancy, it’s essential that you visit a doctor regularly. Many women believe they don’t need to see a doctor until they begin to show signs of labour or start having contractions, but this is untrue.
Seeing a doctor regularly throughout your pregnancy is important for several reasons. For one, regular visits help your doctor keep track of your baby’s growth and development.
The doctor can assess the size and weight of your baby and monitor your blood pressure and other vital signs. This helps them detect any potential problems in the early stages and provide you with the proper medical care and advice.
Your doctor can also answer any questions you have about your pregnancy, such as what foods to eat, how much rest to get, and which activities are safe for you and your baby. Additionally, your doctor will likely recommend lab tests to make sure both you and your baby remain healthy throughout your pregnancy.
Don’t wait until you’re in labor or showing signs of labor to make an appointment with your doctor. Seeing a doctor regularly throughout your pregnancy is essential for you and your baby’s health.
Finally,
Pregnancy can be an exciting and daunting time. With all the information out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and confused by what is true and what is not. Remember, no one knows your body better than you do, so if something doesn’t feel right or you have any concerns, it’s always best to talk to your doctor.
If you are located in the areas of Prabhadevi, Lower parel, Worli and Dadar, and looking for a reliable paediatrician in Mumbai, get in touch with our office and book an appointment. We welcome the opportunity to meet you and ensure you have a happy and safe pregnancy. Get in touch with our office today.