“No, skin changes during pregnancy are not always welcomed.”

Becoming a first-time parent is often described as one of the most rewarding yet challenging experiences ever.

Maybe you’re confused about how long a full-term pregnancy is since you’ve heard mixed things.

A mother gently kisses her baby's forehead, both in casual attire, sharing a tender moment

Or maybe you’re still unsure what foods are actually off-limits for pregnant people.

Now, let’s get into it.

Misconception #1: A full-term pregnancy is the same nine months for every pregnant person.

Pregnant person cradling their belly with both hands, close-up, indoors with a plant in background

“Amniotic fluid is sterile and should have no color or foul odor associated with it.

Other signs of labor include bleeding like a period or regular and painful contractions,” she added.

Heat kills a common bacteria called Listeria that can be found in deli meats," she added.

Pregnant person sitting, holding ultrasound photo over belly

Side note: Somedeli meatsnow have a food additive that helps prevent Listeria before they’re packaged.

Overall, it’s best advised to avoid deli meats until your pregnancy is over.

Misconception #4: Pregnant people shouldn’t exercise too hard.

Pregnant person in a hospital gown standing by a curtain, hand on back, expressing discomfort

Yes, there are instances where pregnant people have run marathons, swam, and played tennis.

I encourage my patients to live their best lives and just be careful," she continued.

Misconception #5: Any person in labor can get an epidural.

Person holding a piece of sushi with chopsticks over a plate of assorted sushi

“The patient is the boss, and they are the only ones experiencing the pain.

“There is a subsection of people that may not be candidates for an epidural.

These include people with a history of brain or spinal injury/surgery.

Group of people in a fitness class doing squats with kettlebells

Misconception #6: Pregnancy improves people’s skin.

Misconception #7: Sex is pleasurable for everyone during pregnancy.

Misconception #8: A person’s period doesn’t change after pregnancy.

Pregnant person in hospital bed with fetal monitoring bands, monitor in background

Misconception #9: Spotting during pregnancy isn’t common.

Misconception #10: Everyone can easily breastfeed.

“Some people are unable to produce enough milk and decide to stop trying to breastfeed.

Person adjusting their hair while looking in a mirror

Breastfeeding is encouraged, but babies still thrive with formula as well.

As in any case, it comes down to personal preference,” Dr. Baldwin explained.

Misconception #11: A person’s body returns to normal after delivery.

Close-up of a person's hands clasped together on a bed

Person lounging on a couch in a zebra-stripe top and black pants, holding a grey stuffed animal

Person sitting on a toilet with patterned shorts around ankles

Woman holding and looking at a baby swaddled in a patterned blanket

Woman interacting with a happy baby lying on a bed