10 Common Pregnancy Myths Busted by Dr Chetna Jain – Your Trusted Gynaecologist in Gurgaon

Pregnancy is one of the most transformative journeys in a woman’s life—full of wonder, excitement, and, yes, questions. In the digital age, you’ll find a flood of advice: some helpful, some outdated, some just plain wrong. As someone who has supported thousands of expectant mothers in Gurgaon and NCR, I, Dr Chetna Jain, am often asked: “Is this true?” or “Should I avoid that?”In this blog, I’ll walk you through 10 widespread pregnancy myths, explain what the evidence says, and help you stay confident and informed as you embrace this beautiful phase.

Myth #1 – “You’re eating for two, so double your food”

The myth: Since there’s a baby inside you, you need to eat twice as much.

The truth: While your nutritional needs do increase, you don’t need to double your intake. In fact, excessive weight gain can lead to complications like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. Focus instead on nutrition‐dense foods: lean proteins, whole grains, plenty of vegetables, healthy fats.Tip: I advise my patients in Gurgaon’s busy lifestyle to aim for a modest calorie increase in the second and third trimesters (e.g., +300 kcal/day) and monitor weight gain with me every visit.

Myth #2 – “You must avoid all physical activity”

The myth: Pregnancy = bed rest. No exercise.

The truth: Unless there are contraindications (which I check for), moderate physical activity is beneficial: walking, prenatal yoga, light strength work. It can reduce back pain, improve mood, help with labour preparation.

Caveat: Avoid high-impact sports, heavy lifting, overheating. In my clinic in Gurgaon, I guide each woman based on her health, trimester and lifestyle.

Myth #3 – “Morning sickness only happens in the morning”

The myth: If you feel nauseous any time of day, you’re not “normal”.

The truth: The term “morning sickness” is a misnomer — nausea and vomiting can occur anytime of the day or night. It’s common especially in first trimester.

Tip: Manage it with small frequent meals, hydration, ginger tea, and let me know if vomiting is severe (hyperemesis) so we can intervene.

Myth #4 – “You cannot travel during pregnancy”

The myth: No flights, no long trips after you’re pregnant.The truth: Travel is often safe for healthy pregnancies up to ~36 weeks, especially domestic flights or car travel. But factors like gestational age, underlying health, destination matter. In Gurgaon context: Many of my patients travel within NCR, to home towns, etc. We evaluate before giving a go-ahead: medical clearance, fluid intake, leg exercises, choose aisle seat, take breaks.

Myth #5 – “All miscarriages are the mother’s fault”

The myth: If miscarriage happens, it’s because the mother did something wrong (stress, diet, exercise).

The truth: Most first‐trimester miscarriages are chromosomal or due to factors beyond the mother’s control. Blame is rarely justified. What I tell expecting mothers: "You did not cause this." We review what happened, support emotionally, and plan forward. My Gurgaon clinic emphasises non-judgmental, compassionate care.

Myth #6 – “You must eat spicy food = baby will have many hairs”

The myth: Spicy meals mean baby will be born with lots of hair.The truth: There is no scientific link between eating spicy food and baby hair. Hair thickness is mostly genetic, hormonal.Tip: If spice bothers your stomach or triggers heartburn (common in pregnancy), it’s better to moderate. Enjoy your flavours, but listen to your body.

Myth #7 – “You should restrict travel to avoid altitude or any movement”

The myth: Any travel or movement (especially in third trimester) is dangerous.

The truth: As above, travel is possible with precaution. Moreover, movement, fresh air, light activity can help your circulation, mood and pregnancy experience—with medical guidance.

Myth #8 – “You cannot dye your hair or wear make-up”

The myth: All cosmetic procedures, hair dye are banned in pregnancy.

The truth: Many modern hair dyes, make-up products are considered low risk when used properly. However, we avoid harsh chemicals (especially in first trimester) and always prioritise safe salons with proper ventilation. In Gurgaon we see many working mothers who want to feel confident—my advice: consult your salon about pregnancy-safe products, patch test, avoid long chemical exposures.

Myth #9 – “Once you’re pregnant, your medical history no longer matters”

The myth: “Oh I’m pregnant now, so everything will automatically go fine.”

The truth: Your pre-pregnancy health, medical history (diabetes, hypertension, thyroid, PCOS, past surgery) still matters. Early and regular antenatal checks are critical. In my 29+ years of practice in Gurgaon, I emphasise early screening, detailed history, personalised plan for every mother.

Myth #10 – “Labour will always follow the natural textbook scenario”

The myth: “I’ll go into labour exactly at 40 weeks, at home, progress in X hours etc.”

The truth: Every pregnancy and labour is unique. Some labours are short, some longer; some may need induction; some may need C-section for maternal or fetal reasons. Planning with your gynaecologist, staying flexible and informed is key. My approach: At my clinic and associated hospital in Gurgaon, we prepare birth plans, discuss options (normal vs C-section), monitor closely, make decisions together.

Why This Matters for Expecting Mothers in Gurgaon & NCR

Living in a fast-paced urban ecosystem like Gurgaon means many pregnant women juggle work, commuting, stress, nutrition, and family expectations. Myths and outdated advice can add extra burden. By busting them:

• You stay informed, not anxious.

• You get evidence-based care tailored to your body, your lifestyle.

• You build a partnership with your gynaecologist (rather than fearing or myth-chasing).

• You optimise for a healthy pregnancy, delivery and recovery in the urban context.

How I Help You – My Services at a Glance

• High-risk and low-risk antenatal care, personalised to your history and lifestyle. cloudninecare.com+1

• Laparoscopic & minimally invasive gynaecological surgeries. gnhhospitals.com+1

• Fertility and reproductive health counselling for pre-pregnancy planning. Vaidam Health+1

• Warm, patient-centred approach: I believe every question deserves clarity, every mother deserves respect. Dr Chetna

If you are an expecting mother (or planning pregnancy) in Gurgaon/NCR and want to separate fact from fiction, I invite you to reach out and schedule a consultation.