The baby bump is the widely known indicator of pregnancy, but how much does it actually reveal?
There are a lot of wild stories out there.
You may be surprised which are true and which are myths.
#5 – A Mother’s Weight Can Affect Their Baby’s Health
This myth is True
- When anyone is overweight, there is a higher risk of developing diabetes and high blood pressure. As a mother, developing both or either of these conditions can adversely affect the baby.
- Being underweight is also an issue. If a mother’s Basic Mass Index (BMI) is under 19, the risk of delivering an underweight baby is increased.
- Genetics can also influence the baby’s weight. Larger parents tend to produce larger babies because of their shared DNA.
#4 – Morning Sickness Affects The Size Of The Baby Bump
This myth is False
The size of the baby bump remains unaffected by morning sickness. Morning sickness affects 70 – 80% of women and usually occurs solely in the first trimester.
However, there is a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum where the pregnant woman experiences severe nausea, vomiting, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration and malnutrition.
These symptoms can continue throughout the duration of the pregnancy and sometimes require hospitalization. With hyperemesis gravidarum, a mother’s inability to keep food down can affect the baby’s size.
#3 – Big Bumps Mean Big Babies
This myth is False
Amniotic fluid, the liquid that surrounds the baby in utero, varies from person to person and pregnancy to pregnancy.
The amount of fluid affects the size of the baby bump. Additionally, factors include your height, the baby’s position and the number of prior pregnancies. [1]
#2 – Small Bump Equals Easy Labor
This myth is False
Various factors affect labor, but bump size is not one of them.
The position of the baby and the mother’s state of mind are major influencers, among others.
#1 – A Big Bump Puts Mothers At Higher Risk
This myth is False
A larger bump does not increase pregnancy complications.
However, the added weight can cause mothers to experience increased back pain, varicose veins or the development of hypertension or diabetes.
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Resources
[1] Aptaclub; 6 reasons why bump size is different to baby’s size.
