Common Pregnancy Myths

common pregnancy myths and baby gender Myths and old wives tales are heard by most pregnant women at some point. Some of these myths surround predicting the gender of the baby and others are just general bad advice for pregnant moms. Here are some of the most common pregnancy myths that you may hear during your pregnancy.

Gender Prediction Myths

How you are carrying the baby will predict the gender. Inevitably people will take a look at how you are carrying the baby and try to guess the gender. You may be told that you are carrying high so the baby is a boy. Carrying all in the front is also said to mean the baby is male, while carrying more to the sides is considered a sign of a girl. These are all not correct. During my pregnancies, I would have people making complete opposite predictions based on my belly.

Childbirth: Natural Pain Relief Options

There are many benefits to a natural birth for both mother and baby. The baby will be born without the lethargic effect that can occur from some pain relief medications. Natural pain relief methods may result in a better chance of avoiding interventions. In some cases, pitocin, artificial rupture of the membranes and other interventions become necessary after the woman receives pain medication. If you want to have a natural birth, you will need to be ready with some natural methods for relieving pain.

Natural Pain Relief Methods

Breathing: All prenatal classes that promote natural child birth include information on breathing. This can be patterned breathing, as in the Lamaze method or just relaxed breathing as in the Bradley method. Breathing helps in a few ways. It brings more oxygen to the baby and your body tissues. Breathing can also help the mother relax through the contractions.

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Fatigue During Pregnancy

tired pregnant woman sleeping on a chair The decision to have a baby is often filled with a variety of different emotions. Although bringing a new baby into this world is a joyous occasion, pregnancy can often bring on a variety of different symptoms. One of the most common symptoms of early pregnancy is fatigue.

During the early stages of pregnancy, your body is trying to work double time in order to keep up with all of the changes that are occurring. Some of the changes that are occurring include an increase production of hormones, as well as an increased blood flow. Along with the increased blood flow, the heart is pumping faster and harder to accommodate the additional blood flow. The increased blood is necessary in order for the growing fetus to get the nutrients it needs.

Benefits of a Water Birth

by Patricia Hughes

Water birth is not a new concept. Women throughout history have given birth in water. With the advent of modern medicine, the practice became less common. In recent years, water birth is experiencing a revival as more women choose this method for giving birth. There are many benefits to giving birth in the water.

Benefits of Water Birth

Better relaxation: Water aids in relaxation. There is a reason that many women enjoy a long, relaxing soak in the tub after a long day. As you relax in the warmth of the water, your cares seem to melt away. Relaxation is very important during labor. When the mother is tense, the tension can actually slow the progress of labor. Relaxing through the contractions is much more effective.

Pain relief: Women report that the pain is greatly reduced when they labor and deliver in the water. Some experienced mothers report that the water was nearly as effective as medicinal pain relievers or epidurals. Water works by blocking the pain impulses in the nerves of the body. Water is an effective alternative to pain medications for women wanting a drug free birth.

Pregnancy After 35 - Risks and Benefits

by Patricia Hughes

Doctors often refer to pregnancy in women age 35 and older “advanced maternal age.” This can be a very upsetting for some women. There are both risks and benefits to postponing motherhood. Your doctor will monitor your health and your baby to prevent and treat possible complications.

Pregnancy Risks after 35

Infertility is more common as women get older. As we age, our fertility naturally declines. Women who postpone motherhood are often surprised to discover they can’t conceive right away. Women over 35 should see a doctor if they haven’t conceived within six months. Certain infertility procedures can result in a multiple pregnancy. This increases risk factors, such as pre eclampsia and premature birth.

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