Nearly half of new parents admit to believing popular pregnancy myths that later turned out to be untrue, new research reveals. A poll of 1,000 parents of children aged 0-10, commissioned by Vitabiotics Pregnacare, found that 47% had initially believed well-known pregnancy superstitions.
Among these, 11% thought that craving sour foods in the first trimester meant they were expecting a boy, while others believed carrying the baby high indicated a girl. The survey also found that 14% believed severe morning sickness hinted at a girl, while mild sickness pointed towards a boy.
Eight in ten said that at least a few of the superstitions they’d heard about and believed in ended up coming true. As a result, 51% of those aware of these myths used them to try and predict their baby’s gender.
A third of those who tried to use a superstition to predict their baby’s gender attempted the ‘key test’—where picking up a key by the narrow end supposedly means a girl is on the way. Another 44% tried the ‘swinging ring test’, tying a ring to a string and swinging it over the belly to see which way it moves.
Carly Sandland, doula and founder of The Doula Club, which matches pregnant women with doulas for support throughout pregnancy and beyond, said: “As a doula, I’ve heard every pregnancy myth going.
“It’s amazing how confidently people will make these calls – even from complete strangers in the supermarket. What this research shows is how common these myths still are – and how many people believe them, even just a little.
“But why not enjoy the guessing games? Have a laugh at the wild ones, and let people guess if they must. But don’t let any of it carry more weight than it deserves.”
Carly cautioned: “Myths aren’t facts. And they definitely aren’t a substitute for understanding your own body and the right professional advice. If something feels off, ask questions. If it doesn’t sit right, trust yourself.”
The study also found that 13% of parents who had heard about pregnancy myths or superstitions said they had a significant impact on their expectations.
A spokesperson for Vitabiotics Pregnacare added: “Of course, not all of these tales are rooted in fact – but they can still be surprisingly persuasive.
“While these stories are usually fairly harmless, it’s always best to check anything that may be concerning or unusual with a midwife or medical professional.”