Pregnancy is one of those life phases where everyone suddenly becomes an expert. Your aunt, your neighbor, even that random cashier at the store—someone always has a “rule” or an old belief you’re “supposed” to follow.

Some of it’s sweet. Most of it? Completely bananas.

So let’s take a stroll down memory lane and bust some of the most outdated, weird, and downright laughable pregnancy myths that still somehow get passed around today.

Video: OB-GYNs Debunk 25 Pregnancy Myths

The Moon Is Not Out to Get You

One of the strangest myths floating around? That looking at the moon—especially during a full moon or eclipse—can harm your baby or trigger labor.

Let’s get this straight: the moon controls tides, not pregnancies. There’s no scientific link between moonlight and labor. So if you’re feeling peaceful on a moonlit night, go ahead—take that walk. The stars won’t hex your uterus.

Strawberries Are Not Birthmark Bombs

Weird but true: Some people still believe that eating strawberries while pregnant will cause your baby to be born with red birthmarks.

Spoiler alert: Birthmarks are random and have zero connection to what you snack on. Strawberries are actually packed with good stuff like folate, vitamin C, and fiber—perfect for you and your baby. Eat them with joy and without fear.

That Bump Doesn’t Reveal Baby’s Gender

“You’re carrying high—must be a girl!” “That low bump? Definitely a boy!”

We all know someone who swears they can tell the gender by looking at your belly. But bump shape depends more on things like your body type, abdominal muscles, and how many pregnancies you’ve had—not whether you’re having a boy or girl.

The only way to truly know? Ask the ultrasound tech—or wait for the surprise.

No, You Won’t Curse Your Baby by Stepping Over a Rope

This one sounds like it came straight from a witch’s handbook: Step over a rope or extension cord and risk tangling your baby’s umbilical cord.

Let’s calm down. Nuchal cords happen due to baby movement inside the womb and are usually harmless. Walking over a rope isn’t going to summon one. Feel free to step wherever you need—cords included.

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

Hair Dye Horror? Not Really

Another classic: coloring your hair while pregnant will hurt the baby—or worse, make them blind. Yikes.

Most experts say hair dye is safe after the first trimester. Just steer clear of super-harsh chemicals and maybe crack a window during your salon visit. Looking fresh doesn’t mean risking your baby’s health.

Mastitis Isn’t a Breastfeeding Dealbreaker

Mastitis—a painful breast infection—can make new moms feel miserable. And unfortunately, the myth that you have to stop nursing only makes it worse.

Truth is, continuing to breastfeed helps reduce inflammation and heal faster. It might hurt, but stopping cold turkey can make things worse. Always consult your doctor—not someone’s sketchy blog post.

Baby Girls Don’t Steal Your Beauty

You’ve heard it: boys make you glow, girls “steal” your looks. It’s weird. It’s sexist. And it’s 100% not true.

Pregnancy hormones affect everyone differently. Breakouts? Exhaustion? Puffy eyes? That’s just the ride of pregnancy—not a mini diva draining your beauty bank. Give yourself grace and plenty of rest.

Video: Doctors Answer Commonly Googled Pregnancy Myths

Your Water Breaking Might Be… Underwhelming

Blame every movie ever for this one. According to Hollywood, your water will break in public in a dramatic whoosh, causing a frenzy.

Reality check: your water might leak slowly or not break until you’re already in the hospital. And sometimes, it needs to be manually broken by a doctor. No splash zone necessary.

Lying on Your Back Isn’t Always Bad

Yes, lying on your back for long stretches in late pregnancy can reduce circulation—but your body usually lets you know when it’s time to switch positions.

Short rest? No problem. Prop yourself up with pillows and listen to your body. Discomfort is your signal—not an alarm bell.

Craving Heat? Spice Away

Many people still whisper that spicy foods will “burn the baby” or send you into labor.

Relax. Spicy food won’t hurt your baby—it might just give you heartburn. If you love hot wings, enjoy them. Just keep a glass of milk nearby in case your stomach says otherwise.

Let’s be honest—pregnancy comes with enough stress already. The last thing anyone needs is a pile of myths from decades ago weighing them down.

So toss out the old wives’ tales, listen to your doctor, and trust your body. Whether it’s eating strawberries, dancing under the moon, or getting that haircut, do what makes you feel like you.

Pregnancy is weird, wild, emotional, and incredible. Just make sure the advice you follow is rooted in fact—not folklore. And if someone tries to warn you about looking at the moon? Smile politely and keep walking.