Common Pregnancy Myths Busted!

Fact or Fiction?  

Welcome to your pregnancy journey! Pregnancy comes with an overwhelming amount of information, advice, and opinions. While it’s always important to consult your doctor or midwife with questions or concerns, learning how to separate facts from fiction can help you feel more confident and informed.  

Myth: You can’t drink coffee while you are pregnant  

Busted! You can still enjoy your coffee, just in moderation. Pregnant women can safely consume up to 200 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is about two regular cups of coffee. So go ahead and savor your morning cup!  

Myth: Pregnant women are eating for two  

Unfortunately for food lovers, this is a myth. Most pregnant women only need about 330–350 additional calories per day, particularly in the second and third trimesters. While that may sound low, the focus should be on the quality of food rather than quantity. Gaining a healthy amount of weight supports both you and your baby throughout pregnancy.  

Myth: Exercising while pregnant can harm the baby  

In most cases, exercise is encouraged during pregnancy. Moderate physical activity, such as 20–30 minutes of exercise, five days a week, can be beneficial. However, it’s best to avoid high-impact or intense workouts, as changes in balance and coordination may increase the risk of injury.  

Back to Reality   

Always consult your doctor or midwife if you have questions or concerns. Continuing to live your life as close to normal as possible during pregnancy is important. The main goal is to support a healthy baby without feeling overwhelmed by misinformation.  

Want to learn more? Visit 14 Pregnancy Myths You Should Stop Believing | Right as Rain by UW Medicine