🤔Debunking Common OB/GYN Myths: An Evidence-Based Perspective.

In daily practice, I encounter many women whose decisions about their health are influenced by myths rather than medical evidence.

Misinformation in women’s health can lead to anxiety, delayed care, or inappropriate choices.

 As OB/GYNs, our responsibility goes beyond treatment  it includes education and reassurance grounded in science.

💥💥Here are some common misconceptions I frequently address in clinic:

1️⃣ Myth: Birth Control Causes Long-Term Infertility.

Fact:

Current scientific evidence does not support the claim that hormonal contraception causes permanent infertility.

Most women regain ovulation within weeks to months after discontinuation. The timeline may vary depending on the method used (e.g., injectables may take longer), but fertility is not permanently impaired by modern contraceptive methods.

2️⃣ Myth: You Must “Eat for Two” During Pregnancy

Fact:

Pregnancy increases nutritional requirements  not the need to double caloric intake.

In most cases, only modest additional calories are required, particularly in the second and third trimesters. The emphasis should be on nutrient-dense foods, adequate protein, iron, folate, calcium, and omega-3 intake not excessive portion sizes.

3️⃣ Myth: Exercise Is Unsafe During Pregnancy.

Fact:

For uncomplicated pregnancies, regular moderate exercise is not only safe but recommended.

Benefits include:

Reduced risk of excessive weight gain

Improved mood and sleep

Better glucose control

Reduced back pain

Improved preparation for labor

Exercise plans should be individualized, especially in high-risk pregnancies.

4️⃣ Myth: Sexual Intercourse Harms the Baby.

Fact:

In healthy pregnancies, sexual activity is safe. The fetus is protected by the amniotic sac, cervix, and uterine musculature.

However, restrictions may apply in specific high-risk conditions such as placenta previa, preterm labor risk, or unexplained bleeding.

5️⃣ Myth: Vaginal Douching Improves Hygiene.

Fact:

The vagina is self-regulating and maintains its own microbiome.

Douching disrupts normal flora and increases the risk of:

Bacterial vaginosis

Pelvic inflammatory disease

Irritation and infection

Routine douching is not recommended.

6️⃣ Myth: Infertility Is Always the Woman’s Fault.

Fact:

Infertility is a shared condition. Approximately:

One-third female factors

One-third male factors

One-third combined or unexplained

Both partners require evaluation when conception is delayed.

Final Thought

Women deserve clarity  not fear.

Accurate, evidence-based information empowers better decisions and healthier outcomes.

💚As healthcare professionals, we must actively correct misinformation and create safe spaces for women to ask questions without judgment.

Dr Rabab Cares 

#DrRababCares 

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