Pregnancy Myths Debunked: Coffee, Sushi, and Sleep Safety
Many common pregnancy "rules" are based on myths rather than solid medical advice, according to Dr. Ori Erlich, a senior gynecologist at Clalit Health Services. He emphasizes that pregnant individuals should consult their doctor for reliable information, rather than relying solely on online sources or hearsay.
Regarding coffee, Dr. Erlich states that moderate consumption of one to two cups per day is safe, with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommending less than 200 mg of caffeine daily. While excessive caffeine can be linked to low birth weight and impaired fetal growth, moderate intake may even help alleviate headaches or low blood pressure. It's important to remember that caffeine is also found in tea, cola, energy drinks, cocoa, and chocolate.
Sushi and other raw fish dishes are generally advised against due to the risk of bacterial contamination, such as Listeria, which can harm a pregnancy. This caution extends to other raw foods like undercooked meat, which can pose a risk of toxoplasmosis. Listeria can survive and multiply even at refrigeration temperatures, making cross-contamination a concern.
For soft cheeses, the key factor is pasteurization. Soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk and stored properly are safe. However, unpasteurized cheeses and certain aged or mold-ripened cheeses like brie, camembert, and gorgonzola, as well as brine-soaked cheeses like feta, are best avoided according to the Israeli Ministry of Health due to potential bacterial growth. Cheeses sold in bulk are also discouraged.
Myths surrounding papaya and pineapple are also addressed. While unripe papaya contains substances that may cause contractions, ripe papaya is safe. Similarly, the enzyme bromelain in pineapple, concentrated in its core and stem, is theoretically linked to contractions, but consuming normal amounts of pineapple is not considered dangerous or a labor inducer.
Sexual intercourse is generally safe throughout pregnancy, provided there are no complications like placenta previa, bleeding, or cervical issues. The fetus is well-protected within the amniotic sac. Travel by air is also typically safe up to around 36 weeks of pregnancy for single pregnancies, with the main concern being prolonged sitting, which can increase the risk of blood clots. Pregnant individuals are advised to move around, stay hydrated, and consider compression socks after consulting their doctor.
Finally, the advice on sleeping positions is clarified. While some guidelines suggest sleeping on one's side in later pregnancy to reduce the risk of stillbirth, Dr. Erlich stresses listening to one's body. If sleeping on the back does not cause discomfort or shortness of breath, it is generally safe, as the mother's well-being is directly linked to the fetus's. However, in advanced pregnancy, rolling onto the side if one wakes up on their back is recommended.
