When I was expecting my first child, my mother-in-law insisted that I couldn’t wash my hair during the first month after delivery. My neighbor warned that eating pineapple would cause a miscarriage. And don’t get me started on all the predictions about whether I was carrying a boy or girl based on how my belly was shaped!
As a mother who’s been through the beautiful journey of pregnancy twice, I’ve heard it all. Our Asian communities are rich with traditions and wisdom passed down through generations. While some of these practices come from a place of love and protection, others are simply myths that can cause unnecessary worry.
Let’s lovingly separate fact from fiction, shall we?
Myth #1: Eating “cooling” food will harm your baby
Many Asian cultures, including Malaysian and Chinese traditions, categorize foods as “heaty” or “cooling.” During pregnancy, there’s often pressure to avoid “cooling” foods like watermelon, cucumber, or certain fruits.
The truth: There’s no scientific evidence that “cooling” food harm pregnancy. In fact, fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals your growing baby needs. What matters most is a balanced, nutritious diet. That said, if certain foods upset your stomach (pregnancy does funny things to our digestion!), listen to your body.
Myth #2: You shouldn’t announce your pregnancy in the first trimester
Many of us were taught to keep our pregnancies secret during the first three months to avoid “bad luck” or the “evil eye.”
The truth: This myth likely evolved because the risk of miscarriage is higher in the first trimester. Each family should decide when they’re comfortable sharing their news. Personally, I found that having support during my early pregnancy challenges was incredibly helpful. If something does go wrong, having loved ones who know what you’re going through can be a blessing.
Myth #3: Pregnant women shouldn’t attend funerals or weddings
This belief spans many Asian cultures, suggesting that pregnant women are vulnerable to spiritual harm or that they might bring bad luck to ceremonies.
The truth: There’s no scientific basis for this restriction. However, crowded gatherings during late pregnancy can be physically uncomfortable, and some religious ceremonies involve incense or strong scents that might trigger nausea. Make choices based on your comfort level and health, not fear.
Myth #4: Exercise during pregnancy is dangerous
Many older relatives might gasp if they see you exercising while pregnant, believing it could harm the baby or cause a miscarriage.
The truth: Gentle to moderate exercise is not only safe but beneficial during normal pregnancies. It helps manage weight, improves mood, and can even make labor easier. My morning walks during pregnancy were my sanity-savers! Of course, always consult your doctor about what exercises are appropriate for your specific situation.
Myth #5: You can tell if you’re expecting a girl or boy based on their position
“Carrying high? It’s a girl! Carrying low? Must be a boy!” I heard this countless times while pregnant, along with comments about the shape of my belly being “pointy” or “round.”
The truth: I carried both my son and daughter exactly the same way—low and to the front—and you should have seen the confusion on my aunties’ faces! How you carry your baby has everything to do with your body type, muscle tone, and the baby’s position, not their gender. Those old wives’ tales might be fun, but they’re right about 50% of the time—the same odds as a coin toss!
Myth #6: Air travel during pregnancy is unsafe
When I mentioned traveling for leisure during my second trimester, some thought I suggested skydiving! The warnings came pouring in.
The truth: For women with healthy, uncomplicated pregnancies, air travel is generally safe until about 36 weeks. The biggest challenges are comfort and potential swelling in your legs. I found that an aisle seat, compression socks, and regular walks up and down the cabin made my flight manageable. Of course, always check with your doctor before booking tickets, as individual circumstances vary.
Myth #7: Sex should be avoided during pregnancy
There’s a persistent belief that intercourse can harm the baby or cause miscarriage.
The truth: In normal, healthy pregnancies, sex is completely safe throughout all three trimesters. The baby is well-protected in your amniotic sac, with the mucus plug sealing your cervix. My husband and I worried about this with our first baby until our doctor reassured us. That said, your desire and comfort levels might fluctuate dramatically—I went from “don’t touch me” in the first trimester to feeling quite amorous in the second! Communication with your partner about your changing needs is key.
Myth #8: Sleeping during the day will make your baby lazy
One of my friends advised me against taking afternoon naps during my second pregnancy. “Your baby will be lazy and sleep all day instead of night!” she warned.
The truth: Pregnancy is exhausting! Your body is working overtime to create a whole new human. If you need extra rest, that’s completely normal and healthy. Your baby’s sleep patterns after birth have nothing to do with when you slept during pregnancy. Those midday naps I took helped me survive the nights when my toddler decided 3 AM was party time!
Myth #9: Bleeding always signals miscarriage
This myth causes so much unnecessary heartache. I had spotting with my son and was absolutely terrified.
The truth: While bleeding can indeed indicate a problem, it doesn’t always mean miscarriage. About 20-30% of women experience some spotting during early pregnancy, and many go on to have perfectly healthy babies. My spotting turned out to be from a sensitive cervix, nothing more.
Myth #10: Coffee is off-limits during pregnancy
When I ordered a small americano at a family gathering, my aunt nearly snatched it from my hands!
The truth: The latest research suggests that moderate caffeine consumption—about 200mg daily, or one 12oz cup of coffee—is generally considered safe during pregnancy. I found that a small morning coffee helped tremendously with my pregnancy headaches. However, everyone’s tolerance varies, and some women find their taste for coffee disappears entirely during pregnancy (my sister in law couldn’t stand the smell!). As with everything during this special time, moderation is key.
Conclusion
I truly believe that the people around us share these traditions out of love. Their generation didn’t have the information access we enjoy today. They’re trying to protect us the best way they know how.
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that bridges generations. We can honor our cultural heritage while embracing modern knowledge, creating our own blend of practices that keeps what’s precious and lets go of what might cause harm.
What pregnancy myths have you heard in your family? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
