Pregnancy Myths, Revealed

Pregnancy comes with no shortage of advice, some helpful, some outdated, and some that never had much basis to begin with. Here's a look at a few commonly repeated myths and what's generally understood instead.

Myth: "You're eating for two"

This phrase suggests roughly doubling food intake, which isn't accurate. Calorie needs do increase during pregnancy, but generally by a modest amount, and mostly in the second and third trimesters rather than from the start. "Eating for two" is better understood as eating nutrient-dense food consistently, not doubling portions.

Myth: Heartburn means a baby will be born with a lot of hair

This is a well-known old wives' tale with no established medical basis. Heartburn during pregnancy is generally attributed to hormonal changes relaxing the valve between the stomach and esophagus, plus physical pressure from a growing uterus, not hair growth.

Myth: You can't exercise during pregnancy

For most people with uncomplicated pregnancies, moderate exercise is commonly recommended rather than discouraged. What changes is the type and intensity, high-impact or contact activities are often better swapped for lower-impact ones, and any new or existing exercise routine is worth discussing with your provider, especially if you have a condition that changes the guidance for you specifically.

Myth: You can't dye your hair while pregnant

This is a common worry, but many providers consider occasional hair dyeing during pregnancy to carry low risk, since very little of the chemical is absorbed through the scalp. Some people still choose to wait until after the first trimester or use gloves and a well-ventilated space as a precaution. If you're concerned, it's a reasonable question to bring to your provider.

Myth: Carrying "high" or "low" tells you the baby's sex

The shape and position of a pregnant belly is mostly influenced by things like muscle tone, uterine positioning, and which pregnancy number it is for you, not the baby's sex. There's no reliable evidence connecting belly shape to sex, however fun it is to guess.

Myth: Spicy food or certain movements can induce labor

There's no strong evidence that spicy food, pineapple, or specific exercises reliably trigger labor before a body is ready. Many of these ideas persist because labor eventually starts anyway, and whatever a person tried right before gets credited after the fact.

Pregnancy folklore isn't going anywhere, it's part of how these experiences get talked about across generations. Just hold it loosely, and lean on your provider for anything that actually affects a decision.