Discovering you’re expecting can be wonderful. If you think pregnancy is just a matter for you, your hubby and baby, you may be wrong. You are going to receive a lot of advice from people around you, focusing on and dos and don’ts during this critical period. Since those superstitions may cause you some unpleasant feelings, it’s a great chance to learn from these old pregnancy myths which you disagree with and talk with the elders.

#1 No Renovation or Moving to a New Home

Chinese believe that hammering nails or repainting your house will cause a baby with a birthmark or born disfigured. Also, staying in the current house may bring good luck to both mom and baby.

FACT: As long as you’re not considered a high-risk pregnancy or having specific medical problem, most experts say you can continue with your regular exercise routine. But still, it is recomended to avoid lifting heavy things or activities that include jarring motions during pregnancy. Moreover, you are advised to minimize the exposure to latex paints that contain ethylene glycol ethers and biocides to protect you and your growing fetus.

#2 No Pregnancy Announcement in the First 3 Months

People believe that a baby is unstable in the first 3 months and disclosing pregnancy too earlier may threaten it.

FACT: There’s a 20% chance of a miscarriage in the first trimester. Whether you talk about your pregnancy or not, it won’t affect your chance of a miscarriage. You are advised to have a regular prenatal checkup and talk with your OB-GYN doctor about the best way to protect your baby.

#3 No Eating Crabs or Seafood

Chinese, especially Hokkien pregnant mums are told to deliver a naughty and mischievous baby if they eat crabs during pregnancy. (In literal translation, the baby has many hands and legs, like a crab.)

FACT: Seafood is rich in protein, iron, and zinc which is good for baby’s development. Pay attention to predatory fish like sharks and swordfish which contain high levels of mercury. Moreover, raw seafood should be avoided during pregnancy to prevent bacterial infections. As long as the crabs or seafood are well cooked, mums-to-be can eat them, especially during the third trimester to promote baby’s brain development.

#4 No Attending Weddings & Funerals

In Chinese cultural beliefs, 2 happy events may have an opposite effect. The luck of the bride and groom may harm the health and luck of a mom-to-be. Also, funerals are known as an unlucky event in Chinese culture. That’s why an expecting mom should avoid it too.

FACT: It’s perfectly safe for mums and the unborn baby to be part of the festivities. Be sure you wear a comfortable outfit, put a smile on your face, and have a wonderful time with family and friends!

 

#5 No Eating Mutton, Rabbit or Snake

In Cantonese, the pronoune of mutton, rabbit and snale sounds similar to epilepsy.

FACT: There’s no evidence back for the belief of eating mutton, rabbit or snake during pregnancy may have a higher chance to get epilepsy, a cleft lip or a scaly baby.  You are advised to take red meat in moderation since it contains high fat which can cause pregnancy complications.

 

#7 No Scissors or Needles on the Bed

Similarly, the Chinese believe that using scissors or needles may lead to a baby with a cleft lip.

FACT: There’s no evidence that sewing or cutting on the bed can increase the risk of delivering a cleft lip baby. Bear it in mind, be happy, take more rest, and avoid being too tired during pregnancy are the key to delivering a healthy baby.