Debunking 3 Common Myths About Your Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a wonderful experience that can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. Not only will you need to deal with the discomfort of your changing body, but the excess hormones will cause a roller coaster of emotions. In addition, a lack of full understanding can create many unnecessary questions and concerns. If you are currently pregnant, use this guide to understand the truth behind a few common pregnancy myths:
You Must Avoid Cats
You may have heard that cats are associated with toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by a microscopic parasite. While it can be transmitted by cats, you and your unborn baby are unlikely to develop the infection from having a cat in your house.
There are actually many factors that would need to come into play for you to develop toxoplasmosis. Not only will your cat need to be a hunter that consumes infected red meat, but you would also need to handle any fecal matter that has been sitting dormant for more than 24 hours. The odds of developing the infection are very low, so you do not need to worry about avoiding cats.
To be on the safe side, be sure to clean out your cat's litter box regularly. Wear disposable gloves during this chore. In addition, wash your hands with warm water and soap.
You Should Eat for Two
Eating for two is common in pregnant women. Not only will your body use more energy to support a growing life, but you may also have cravings for certain foods at all hours of the day and night. You will be carrying another life in your body, so you may feel the need to eat more during your pregnancy, but it is important to not get carried away with your food intake.
In fact, overeating can cause you to gain unnecessary weight during your pregnancy, which leads to conditions that affect your overall health and wellness. You may develop high blood pressure or diabetes. Both of these issues can be dangerous to your health while also affecting the health of your unborn child.
Ask your obstetrician for recommendations on following a healthy diet while pregnant.
Cocoa Butter Prevents Stretch Marks
Your uterus will need to grow to the size of a watermelon, allowing your baby to have a spacious and functional place to grow during pregnancy. During this growth process, your skin will need to stretch to accommodate your larger uterus.
Most women develop stretch marks on their abdomen due to this stretching of the skin. Although unsightly, these marks are not life-threatening. Slathering the skin with cocoa butter to prevent these marks is another common myth associated with pregnancy. While continuous moisturizing can help your skin, cocoa butter will not prevent these stretch marks.
Contact a medical center like Desert Rose OBGYN PC for more information and assistance.