pregnancy BY DEIRDRE CARLSON
DRINK ‘TILL IT’S PINK AND OTHER COMMON PREGNANCY MYTHS
When you’re pregnant, you’re likely to hear a lot of old wives’ tales, some of which can be amusing (carry high - it’s a girl, carry low - it’s a boy). Some, however, are not so amusing.
1
YOU CAN’T EXERCISE
This is a myth. Exercise is strongly recommended during pregnancy. It’s safe and better for you and your baby if you stay active during pregnancy. Most women can continue the same exercise they did before pregnancy if a doctor signs off on it. If you were not very active before you became pregnant, start with gentle exercise, such as walking, and build up.
2
IT’S OKAY TO DRINK A GLASS OF WINE WHEN YOU’RE PREGNANT
Thinking it’s ok to have a few drinks here or there while pregnant? Unfortunately, it’s not clear how much alcohol it takes to cause problems, so the best advice remains the same: women should avoid alcohol if pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
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3
DON’T DYE YOUR HAIR
Thankfully you’re not condemned to nine months of bad hair days. Research shows it’s safe to color your hair in pregnancy. You’d need to use an extremely high dose of the chemicals far more than needed to color your hair - to cause harm.
4
YOU’RE EATING FOR TWO
Thinking of helping yourself to that extra scoop of ice cream? Yes, you’re eating for two, but that doesn’t mean two full adult size servings are necessary. Most women will only need an extra 200-300 calories per day to promote baby’s growth (on top of the 2,000 daily recommendation), assuming that you’re starting pregnancy at a normal weight.
5
YOU CAN’T FLY
Worried about booking a baby moon? Fear not. Get on the plane, have a good time, and revel in the freedom of a holiday while you can. When
2020 SJ HEALTH AND MEDICAL GUIDE
you fly, the air is dry. You’re also more likely to be sitting for a prolonged period of time. Just make sure to hydrate and get up and walk around every hour or so.
6
YOU CAN’T HAVE ANY COFFEE
You don’t need to rule out caffeine completely, but moderation is key here. Guidelines recommend that you limit yourself to no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day, which can be as little as one cup of filter coffee and a bar of chocolate. More than 60 percent of women who checked their average intake were over the limit. TALK TO A PROFESSIONAL: P. GILL OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY MEDICAL GROUP Locations in Stockton, Lodi, Manteca & Tracy (209) 466-8546 GillObgyn.com
