Did you also hear of the African myth that forbids pregnant women from ever showing their belly to the public until after childbirth? Don't worry, we're not going to discuss those today. We'll leave the superstitious beliefs for our ancestors.

Let's debunk a few pregnancy myths today, shall we:

You have to eat for two - Not true

Facts: No you don't have to. Pregnancy indeed increases your nutritional and caloric needs but you're not supposed to double your meals for that. The required calorie intakes are 1800, 2200, and 2400 calories during the first, second, and third trimesters respectively along with your nutritional supplements. Anything above this can cause gestational diabetes and preeclampsia as a result of high blood pressure. Try as much as possible to eat a healthy balanced diet and drink plenty of water.

Morning sickness only happens in the morning - errrmm Nope

Facts: Despite the name morning sickness, it can happen at any time during the day. Research also shows that nausea and vomiting are limited to a small percentage of women during pregnancy. Severe morning sickness ( hyperemesis gravida) requires medical attention immediately to prevent/control dehydration

It's okay to drink occasionally - on which planet?????

Facts: NO! Whatever you do, stay away from alcohol during pregnancy.

Alcohol can cause abnormal facial features of a baby, miscarriage, child mental disabilities, and stillbirth.

You can't fly or travel - says who???

Facts: Pregnancy is not affected by gravity and spontaneous abortions, after the first trimester, or premature birth are caused by other health factors and can happen to anyone, whether you travel or not. However, doctors advise that traveling should be done during the second trimester (18 weeks to 28 weeks) and early third trimester since this is the period most women feel their best.

It is important to consult your doctor before taking that trip, even if you don't have any underlying health conditions.

You can't exercise during pregnancy

Facts: Staying active during pregnancy is the best thing you can do for yourself, as this can help with 'easy/faster' birth and reduce pregnancy complications. You’re good to go unless your doctor strictly tells you not to. If this is your first time exercising, it's best to get clearance from your doctor first and then go slow, no weights, jumping, running, and overdoing it, please. Walking, swimming, dancing, and yoga are great low-impact exercises. Get comfy sneakers and clothes and have fun.

Pregnancy is an “all happy” joyful period.

Facts: It's not always as blissful as it looks. Pregnancy takes a heavy toll on expecting mothers. The first trimester is especially the most difficult for most women.

You can't lose weight during pregnancy

Facts: Losing weight during pregnancy is still very possible. As long you eat the recommended amount of calories for pregnancy and exercise regularly, it's easier to control your weight especially when you're obese.

You can't have caffeine

Facts: You can still take coffee or caffeine but only limited to 200 milligrams (mg) per day. Taking too much of that can cause the uterine blood vessels to constrict and reduce blood

Salty or sugary cravings determine the sex of a baby

Facts: The sex of a baby can never be predicted or determined by salt or sugar. There's no scientific evidence backing this. However, sugar cravings for instance could be an indication of a drop in your blood sugar level. Your doctor can best determine this.

Eating spicy foods will cause blindness in babies.

Facts: There's no way spicy foods can cause such harm to the fetus and there's no scientific research that proves it does. But spicy food can trigger heartburn for expecting mothers as their belly grows and pushes against the digestive system.

Okay, so now we can close this chapter and enjoy our pregnancy, lol.

Always seek medical advice when you are unsure of anything, best to be safe always.