If you’ve ever been pregnant—or even mentioned the idea out loud—you’ve probably been bombarded with wild advice. From ancient superstitions to outdated medical beliefs, people love to share what they think you should or shouldn’t do with your pregnant body.

But let’s face it: some of those “rules” are totally ridiculous. And thanks to modern science (and a good dose of common sense), we can finally stop stressing over them and maybe even laugh a little.

Video: OB-GYNs Debunk 25 Pregnancy Myths

Don’t Look at the Moon—Seriously?

One of the oldest myths? That pregnant women should avoid looking at the full moon or lunar eclipse. According to this gem, gazing up at the night sky could either trigger early labor or “curse” your unborn baby.

Let’s just say this one didn’t age well. Modern medicine confirms: the moon does not control your cervix. So go ahead—enjoy that moonlight walk. It’s probably better for your blood pressure than avoiding it.

Strawberries = Birthmarks? Let’s Talk Logic

Ever heard this one? “Don’t eat strawberries or your baby will be born with red marks on their face.” Apparently, juicy red fruit is to blame for infantile hemangiomas—those little red patches some babies are born with.

But here’s the truth: birthmarks are genetic and totally random. Strawberries are actually packed with nutrients like vitamin C and fiber—great for both you and your growing baby. So slice up a bowl and snack without guilt.

The Baby Bump Gender Reveal Game

“You’re carrying low? Must be a boy. That high bump? Definitely a girl.”

We’ve all heard it. Some people even treat it like a guaranteed gender predictor. But bump shape? It’s mostly influenced by your muscle tone, posture, and whether this is your first baby—not your baby’s chromosomes.

If you really want to know the gender, maybe stick with an ultrasound.

Stepping Over Cords Tangles the Umbilical Cord?

According to some folks, if you step over a rope, cord, or even raise your hands above your head, the umbilical cord might wrap around the baby’s neck. Sounds terrifying, right?

Relax. Nuchal cords are common and happen because of baby movement—not your step count. This myth sounds dramatic, but it’s not based in any real science.

Video: Flying, Coffee, Dyeing Your Hair, and More: OBGYN Busts Myths About Pregnancy

Hair Dye = Blindness? Nope.

Some pregnant women are warned not to dye their hair because it might “harm the baby’s eyes.” Sounds bizarre—and it is.

While it’s smart to avoid strong chemicals during the first trimester, most hair treatments today are safe. If you want to touch up those roots or refresh your highlights, you’re not risking your baby’s vision. Just use good ventilation and skip the harshest formulas.

Mastitis Doesn’t Mean Quit Breastfeeding

If you get mastitis—an infection that causes breast pain and swelling—you might be told to stop nursing. That’s actually the worst thing you can do.

Continuing to breastfeed helps clear blockages and ease the pain. And your milk? Still safe for baby. Just check in with your doctor and keep nursing through the discomfort if you can.

Beauty = Boy, Breakouts = Girl? Not So Fast

This one’s been whispered through generations: Boys bring beauty. Girls “steal it.” Translation? If you glow, it’s a boy. If your skin breaks out or you feel tired all the time, it’s a girl.

Let’s get real—your baby’s gender isn’t controlling your pores. Pregnancy hormones, sleep patterns, and stress are what really affect how you look. And yes, it’s totally normal to feel like a zombie some days. Girl or boy, that’s just pregnancy.

Video: Doctors Answer Commonly Googled Pregnancy Myths

TV Made You Think Your Water Would Break Like a Fire Hydrant

Thanks to Hollywood, most people expect labor to begin with a dramatic splash in the middle of a grocery store aisle. In reality, only about 10–15% of women experience their water breaking as the first sign of labor.

Sometimes it’s just a trickle. Sometimes it doesn’t happen at all until you’re already in the hospital. So no need to panic every time you sneeze in the third trimester.

Lying on Your Back Is Always Dangerous? Kind of.

Later in pregnancy, doctors often suggest not lying flat on your back for long periods. That’s because the weight of the uterus can reduce blood flow. But here’s the thing: brief moments lying back aren’t going to hurt you or the baby.

Use pillows to prop yourself up, trust your body, and change positions if you feel dizzy. Your body’s pretty good at telling you what’s uncomfortable—listen to it.

Spicy Food = Trouble? Only for Your Stomach

Craving something hot and spicy? Don’t worry—you’re not endangering your baby. The myth that spicy food causes labor or harms the fetus is just that—a myth.

At most, it might trigger some heartburn, especially later in pregnancy. So grab that taco, just maybe skip the extra jalapeños if your gut’s already on fire.

Pregnancy is a wild ride already—emotional, physical, and unpredictable. You don’t need superstitions or half-baked advice making it harder. Instead of fearing fruit or full moons, focus on real self-care: rest, nutrition, connection, and a good relationship with your healthcare provider.

Old myths can be fun to laugh at, but they don’t belong in your decision-making. So eat the strawberries, try that spicy curry, and take that night stroll under the stars. Your body knows what it’s doing—and science has your back.

Let’s leave these outdated pregnancy myths where they belong: in the past.