The Craziest Pregnancy Myths From Around the World and What They Really Mean

Pregnancy is a time filled with wonder, excitement, and – let's be honest – a lot of advice. Along with the universal joy of expecting a little one comes a myriad of myths and superstitions that have been passed down through generations. These myths often come from different cultures around the world and can sometimes leave us scratching our heads or laughing out loud. While some myths have a kernel of truth, others are purely imaginative. Let’s take a look at some of the craziest pregnancy myths from around the world and what they really mean.

1. "If you have bad skin during pregnancy, you're having a girl." (USA)

In the United States, it’s often said that if a pregnant woman experiences breakouts or skin problems, it’s a sign that she’s carrying a girl. This myth is rooted in the idea that girls "steal their mothers' beauty." On the flip side, some believe that a girl will make her mother glow while a boy is said to cause more skin issues. 

What it really means: The truth behind this myth is hormonal changes. Pregnancy can alter a woman's hormone levels significantly, causing oil production to increase and leading to acne or skin changes. There’s no gender-specific cause for this, despite what many old wives' tales may say.

2. "If you’re carrying high, it’s a girl; if you’re carrying low, it’s a boy." (Various Cultures)

This popular myth claims that the way you carry your baby – high or low – is an indicator of the baby’s gender. Carrying high supposedly means you’re having a girl, while carrying low means you’re expecting a boy. 

What it really means: The way a woman carries her baby is largely determined by her body shape, muscle tone, and the position of the baby. It's not an indication of the baby’s gender, but rather a matter of anatomy. Everyone’s pregnancy is unique, and how you carry is influenced by many different factors that have nothing to do with gender.

3. "Eating spicy foods will bring on labor." (India)

In many cultures, including India, there’s a widespread belief that eating spicy foods during the later stages of pregnancy can induce labor. The idea is that the heat from spicy food stimulates the digestive system and causes contractions.

What it really means: There’s no scientific evidence to support this myth, although some women may swear by it. Spicy foods can irritate your digestive system and cause discomfort, but they won’t magically bring on labor. Labor is controlled by hormones, not by what you eat. However, it’s always important to consult your doctor about your diet, especially in late pregnancy.

4. "A pregnant woman should avoid going near cats because they can harm the baby." (Middle East)

In parts of the Middle East, there’s a belief that pregnant women should stay away from cats because they could cause harm to the baby. The myth is often linked to toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that can be contracted from handling cat litter.

What it really means: While it’s true that toxoplasmosis can be harmful to the baby if contracted, the risk is extremely low if proper hygiene is practiced when handling litter. Most health professionals simply recommend avoiding changing the litter box if possible, or using gloves and washing hands afterward. There’s no reason to stay away from cats altogether as long as precautions are taken.

5. "You can’t dye your hair while pregnant." (Global)

This myth suggests that dyeing your hair during pregnancy is dangerous, either for the baby or for the mother. Some believe that the chemicals in hair dye could be absorbed through the scalp and affect the baby’s health.

What it really means: There’s no conclusive evidence to suggest that hair dye poses a significant risk to the baby. However, many doctors recommend waiting until the second trimester to dye your hair, just to be cautious. If you’re concerned, consider using ammonia-free or natural hair dye alternatives, and make sure the area is well-ventilated.

 6. "If you have heartburn during pregnancy, your baby will have a lot of hair." (USA)

This myth is commonly heard in the U.S., where it’s believed that if you suffer from severe heartburn during pregnancy, your baby will be born with a thick head of hair.

What it really means: Heartburn during pregnancy is often due to the hormonal changes that relax the muscles in the digestive tract, allowing stomach acids to flow back up. There’s no scientific evidence linking heartburn to the amount of hair your baby will have. However, some babies are born with lots of hair, and others with none at all, and it’s purely a genetic trait.

7. "You shouldn’t have sex during pregnancy." (Global)

In various cultures, it’s believed that having sex during pregnancy can harm the baby or lead to a miscarriage. This myth has been around for centuries and is still prevalent in many parts of the world.

What it really means: In most pregnancies, sex is completely safe and will not harm the baby. However, there are certain high-risk pregnancies where doctors may advise against sex. It’s always important to listen to your body and consult with your healthcare provider, but for the majority of women, sex during pregnancy is not only safe but can be a way to stay connected with your partner.

8. "The color of your urine indicates the gender of your baby." (Latin America)

This myth suggests that the color of a pregnant woman’s urine can reveal the baby’s gender. If the urine is bright yellow or dark, it supposedly means you’re having a boy, while pale or clear urine means it’s a girl.

What it really means: The color of your urine is largely affected by hydration levels. When you’re well-hydrated, your urine will be light in color, while dehydration can cause it to appear darker. It has absolutely nothing to do with the baby’s gender.

 9. "If you look at a baby’s face while pregnant, your child will have a birthmark." (Africa)

In some African cultures, it’s believed that looking at a baby’s face during pregnancy will cause the child to be born with a birthmark that resembles the person’s face you looked at. 

What it really means: This myth is a cultural superstition and doesn't have any scientific basis. Birthmarks are typically caused by genetic factors or the way blood vessels form during fetal development.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is full of surprises, and along with the joy of expecting a little one, myths and old wives' tales abound. While many of these myths are fun and intriguing, it's important to remember that most have no scientific basis. Whether it’s the way you carry your baby or the foods you eat, the reality is that pregnancy is different for every woman. Embrace the joy of your journey and always consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about what’s best for you and your baby!