Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but along the way, you’ll likely encounter a flood of advice—much of it outdated and downright ridiculous. From superstitions to well-meaning but misguided beliefs, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. The good news is, modern science has debunked many of these myths, allowing expectant mothers to breathe a little easier. In this article, we’ll expose some of the most outrageous pregnancy myths and reveal the truth behind them, so you can navigate your pregnancy with confidence and clarity.

1. The Moon Myth: Don’t Look at the Full Moon

One of the oldest pregnancy myths is that a pregnant woman should avoid looking at the full moon or a lunar eclipse, because doing so could trigger early labor or “curse” the unborn baby. The idea is that the moon has some sort of mystical power that can affect pregnancy, and some even claim that the full moon’s energy could cause a premature birth or harm the baby.

This myth might sound familiar, especially if you’ve ever heard someone suggest that pregnant women should stay indoors during a full moon. But let’s set the record straight: Modern medicine confirms that the moon does not have any effect on your cervix or your baby’s development. The gravitational pull of the moon may influence tides, but it has absolutely no impact on your pregnancy.

So go ahead, enjoy that moonlight walk. It’s probably better for your blood pressure than stressing over it. If you enjoy the beauty of the night sky, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t bask in it—without any fear of a “curse.”

Think you know everything about pregnancy? Think again! Watch this video as OB-GYNs reveal the truth behind 25 common pregnancy myths you’ve probably believed.

2. Strawberries and Birthmarks: A Sweet but False Link

One pregnancy myth that’s been passed down through generations is the belief that eating strawberries will cause your baby to be born with red marks on their face. These marks, known as infantile hemangiomas, are often mistaken as something caused by eating certain foods—especially strawberries.

In reality, birthmarks are genetic and occur randomly. They are not a result of the food you eat during pregnancy. Strawberries, in fact, are packed with beneficial nutrients like vitamin C and fiber, which are great for both you and your growing baby. So, rather than avoiding this healthy, delicious fruit out of fear, enjoy it guilt-free!

It’s important to remember that food doesn’t control your baby’s physical features in any way. Embrace your cravings and nourish yourself with the vitamins and nutrients your body needs.

Curious if flying or drinking coffee is safe during pregnancy? Watch this video to see OB-GYNs bust myths about pregnancy dos and don’ts, including hair dye and more!

3. The Baby Bump Gender Reveal Game

Many people have tried to predict the baby’s gender based on the shape and height of the pregnant belly. “Carrying low? Must be a boy. That high bump? Definitely a girl.” This gender-predicting myth has been around for decades, but the truth is, your bump’s shape has very little to do with your baby’s sex.

The position and shape of your belly are more influenced by factors like your muscle tone, posture, and whether it’s your first pregnancy, not your baby’s chromosomes. The myth that bump shape determines gender is just that—a myth.

If you’re really curious about your baby’s gender, don’t rely on old wives’ tales—an ultrasound or a blood test is the most accurate way to find out.

4. Stepping Over Cords: Tangling the Umbilical Cord?

This one might sound a little more terrifying than others: Some people believe that if a pregnant woman steps over a rope, cord, or even raises her hands above her head, the umbilical cord could wrap around the baby’s neck. This idea stems from the notion that any kind of movement or “misstep” might cause harm to the baby.

The truth is, nuchal cords (the medical term for the umbilical cord being wrapped around the baby’s neck) are actually quite common and usually happen because of the baby’s movements in the womb—not anything you do, like stepping over cords. While nuchal cords may sound scary, they are often not dangerous. In fact, many babies with nuchal cords are born without complications. So, take a deep breath—you’re not likely to tie your baby in knots just by walking or moving.

5. Hair Dye and Blindness: The Absurd Myth

One of the more bizarre pregnancy myths involves hair dye. Some people believe that dyeing your hair during pregnancy could harm your baby’s eyes, potentially leading to blindness. As odd as this sounds, it’s still a myth that some expectant mothers worry about.

While it’s a good idea to be cautious with strong chemicals during the first trimester, the majority of modern hair dyes are completely safe. There’s no scientific evidence to suggest that hair dye can harm your baby’s eyes or cause blindness. If you’re concerned about using chemical products, you can opt for ammonia-free dyes or wait until the second trimester when your baby’s development is more advanced. But rest assured, coloring your hair won’t endanger your child.

6. Mastitis: Keep Breastfeeding Through the Pain

Mastitis, a condition that causes breast pain and swelling, can be incredibly uncomfortable for nursing mothers. Some well-meaning individuals may suggest that you stop breastfeeding if you develop mastitis, but this advice is actually counterproductive.

Stopping breastfeeding when you have mastitis can lead to more complications, like worsening the infection or causing blockages in the milk ducts. In fact, continuing to breastfeed helps clear the blockages and ease the pain. Your milk remains safe for your baby, and breastfeeding can actually help resolve the issue faster. Always consult with your doctor for advice, but the general recommendation is to keep breastfeeding through the discomfort.

7. Beauty and Breakouts: The Gender Myth That’s Been Debunked

One of the most persistent pregnancy myths is that your skin will glow if you’re carrying a boy, but if you’re carrying a girl, you’ll experience breakouts. According to this myth, boys “bring beauty,” while girls “steal it.”

However, this myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Pregnancy hormones, sleep patterns, and stress are the main factors that affect your skin during pregnancy—not the gender of your baby. It’s completely normal for pregnant people to experience changes in their skin, whether that means a radiant glow or more breakouts. Don’t let this myth influence how you view your pregnancy—your skin is just reacting to the natural hormonal changes.

8. TV Misconception: The Water Breaking Drama

Thanks to Hollywood, most people expect labor to begin with an enormous splash of water breaking, much like in movies. In reality, only about 10-15% of women experience their water breaking as the first sign of labor. For most women, the water doesn’t break until they’re already in the hospital, or it may even need to be broken by a doctor.

So, don’t panic every time you sneeze in the third trimester, and don’t expect a dramatic flood of water during labor. When it does happen, it’s usually a relatively mild trickle, not a full-on geyser.

Ever Googled pregnancy myths? You’re not alone! Watch this video where doctors answer the most commonly searched questions and debunk the biggest misconceptions.

9. Lying on Your Back: The Truth Behind the Warnings

It’s often suggested that pregnant individuals should avoid lying on their backs, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, because the weight of the uterus can reduce blood flow. While it’s true that prolonged periods of lying on your back can be uncomfortable or even harmful in some cases, a brief moment of lying flat is unlikely to hurt you or your baby.

The key is listening to your body. If lying flat on your back feels uncomfortable or causes dizziness, it’s a sign that you should change positions. Using pillows to prop yourself up can also help, making it more comfortable for both you and your baby.

10. Spicy Food and Labor: Separating Fact from Fiction

Craving spicy food? Don’t worry—eating spicy foods during pregnancy won’t trigger labor or harm your baby. This myth likely stems from the idea that spicy foods can “kickstart” the body, but the truth is, they’re unlikely to cause any effect on your pregnancy unless you already have a sensitive stomach.

In fact, spicy foods can even provide health benefits, such as boosting your metabolism or helping with digestion. However, if you experience heartburn, you might want to ease up on the hot peppers. Listen to your body, and enjoy your food as you please.

Conclusion: Embracing Modern Pregnancy Wisdom

Pregnancy can be overwhelming enough without the added stress of outdated myths and superstitions. While it’s fun to laugh at the wild ideas people once believed, it’s important to remember that modern science has come a long way. Instead of worrying about avoiding strawberries or staying away from the full moon, focus on what truly matters: your health, well-being, and building a supportive relationship with your healthcare provider.

Pregnancy is a time for celebration, not fear. So, eat those strawberries, enjoy a stroll under the stars, and embrace the excitement of welcoming a new life into the world. Trust your body, trust your doctor, and leave those outdated myths in the past.

Let’s move forward with a new perspective, embracing science and evidence-based advice for a healthy and stress-free pregnancy.