Common Pregnancy Myths

Misinformation and old wives’ tales can sometimes make for a confusing pregnancy. Some of these myths continue to get handed down from one generation to the next, even if they have little basis in fact. Here are some common myths of pregnancy—and the truths behind them.

Myth: Caffeine must be avoided during pregnancy.

Truth: According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, "moderate caffeine consumption doesn't appear to cause miscarriage or preterm birth." Moderate caffeine consists of less than 200 milligrams of caffeine a day (about 12 ounces of coffee).

Myth: Eating fish of any kind is dangerous.

Truth: Not really. This myth arose because of concerns over mercury, a metal that can be toxic to babies, children and adults. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration suggests that pregnant women should eat no more than 12 ounces (2 average-sized servings) of fish per week. Fish to be avoided because of high mercury content include swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish. Tuna can be eaten in moderation. (Up to 12 ounces of canned light tuna per week or up to 6 ounces of fresh or canned albacore (white) tuna per week.)

Myth: Keep away from computers, as they leak dangerous radiation.

Truth: The radiation produced by computers is very, very small, especially now with the use of LCD screens. It’s a good idea, though, to avoid long hours on computer keyboards during pregnancy, not because of dangers posed by radiation, but because of the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Myth: Air travel during pregnancy poses dangers.

Truth: The argument here is based on two concerns—concerns about radiation from x-Rays at airport security checkpoints and changes in air pressure in the passenger cabin during flight. Neither of these is very valid. The radiation from airport x-Rays is small and there is no evidence that changing cabin pressure brings on premature labor or causes a miscarriage.