The miracle of conception, pregnancy and birth is a wondrous event for any couple, and there’s no shortage of advice dispensed when you’re expecting. The barrage of (often unsolicited) dos and don’ts can be somewhat daunting. Each generation and culture seems to do things a little differently, and it can be a challenge to discern which nuggets of wisdom are medically apt and which are old wives tales. There are a lot of wacky beliefs out there that don’t necessarily have much basis in science or common sense, but they’re still in circulation. Get a load of some of the pregnancy myths, folklore, traditions and superstitions across the globe.
1. Arab Moms Shouldn’t Give Into Cravings
Arab mothers-to-be are told not to indulge in food cravings while with child, or else the baby will be born with a birthmark in the shape of that indulgence. If your food cravings are sweet, you’re said to be having a girl; sour, you’re having a boy. Arab women also believe they shouldn’t look at rabbits while pregnant, or the child will have bucked teeth.
