Pregnancy is a magical journey, but let’s be honest—it’s also full of strange advice, unsolicited opinions, and myths that need to be busted. While some advice is helpful, other bits are just plain ridiculous. You’ve probably heard some of these so-called “truths” from well-meaning friends, family, or that one random person at the grocery store, but it’s time to separate the pregnancy facts from the fiction.
Here are five overrated pregnancy myths that you can finally stop believing!
1. “You’re Eating for Two” (Actually, You’re Not)
We’ve all heard it: “You’re eating for two now, so go ahead and indulge in that entire pizza!” While it’s true that you need extra nutrients when you’re pregnant, you’re definitely not supposed to double your food intake. Eating for two doesn’t mean eating double the calories—it means making better choices for both you and your baby.
In fact, most experts recommend only a small increase in calorie intake during pregnancy (around 300 calories a day in the second and third trimesters). So, while it’s tempting to blame the extra scoop of ice cream on the baby, your body will thank you for more balanced, nutrient-rich meals instead!
2. “Pregnancy Glow Means You’re Healthy and Perfect” (Spoiler: Not Every Woman Gets It)
We’ve all heard about that “pregnancy glow” where expectant mothers are supposedly radiating with health and beauty. This myth suggests that all pregnant women will have glowing skin, shiny hair, and just the right amount of “pregnancy magic” to make them look perfect. But the reality is, that glowing skin might be more about your hormones than any mystical glow.
Not every pregnant woman experiences glowing skin—many face acne, hormonal breakouts, or dark spots. And that’s totally okay! Pregnancy can cause changes in your skin, hair, and overall appearance, and they’re not always Instagram-perfect. So, don’t stress if you’re not glowing—being comfortable in your skin is way more important than meeting unrealistic standards.
3. “You’ll Be Craving Pickles and Ice Cream” (More Like… Cravings for Whatever’s in Front of You)
Okay, let’s talk about those famous cravings. We’ve all seen the movies where a pregnant woman is in the middle of a late-night binge on pickles and ice cream, but let’s set the record straight: pregnancy cravings aren’t always that dramatic. While some women do experience weird cravings, it’s not always that specific (and definitely not always for pickles and ice cream).
Cravings are more about your body trying to tell you it needs specific nutrients or just dealing with fluctuating hormones. One woman might crave oranges, while another might want a weird combination of popcorn and mashed potatoes. And guess what? Those cravings are pretty normal, but they don’t always come with the dramatic, midnight snack situations you see on TV.
4. “You Can’t Exercise When You’re Pregnant” (Actually, You Can—Safely)
Here’s one that needs to go: the myth that pregnancy means you have to put your fitness goals on hold for nine months. This myth is totally outdated! Of course, if you’re dealing with complications, you should always follow your doctor’s advice, but for most healthy pregnancies, exercising is actually encouraged.
In fact, staying active during pregnancy can help with everything from reducing back pain to improving sleep quality and boosting your energy levels. Of course, you need to be mindful about your routine—low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga are all great choices. So, don’t let anyone make you feel bad for breaking a sweat!
5. “If You Don’t Feel Kicks, Something’s Wrong” (Not Always)
When you’re pregnant, feeling your baby move is one of the most exciting parts, and it’s natural to get worried if things suddenly feel a little quieter. However, the idea that every day should come with a kick session is one of the most overrated myths. While fetal movement is an important sign of baby’s health, it’s not an exact science.
It’s completely normal for babies to have quiet periods, especially as they grow and space becomes tighter in there. The frequency and strength of movements can vary, and babies may be more active at certain times of day (or even in the middle of the night when you’re trying to sleep). So, while you should definitely track movements and talk to your doctor if something feels off, a quiet day doesn’t automatically mean something’s wrong.
Conclusion: The Truth is Much Less Stressful
Pregnancy is a unique experience for every woman, and there’s no one-size-fits-all guide. The myths around pregnancy only add unnecessary stress and pressure, so it’s important to know what’s true and what’s just another exaggerated story.
Don’t let these overrated myths define your pregnancy experience. Focus on what makes you feel good, trust your body, and know that your journey is yours alone. And remember: it’s okay not to glow, it’s okay not to crave pickles, and most importantly, it’s okay to not be perfect. Just enjoy the ride, and know that you’ve got this, myth-free!