Pregnancy Myths Busted

Let’s be honest – pregnancy can be overwhelming and a little scary. Not only is your body changing and the pressures of impending parenthood enough to deal with, but the information overload about pregnancy and parenthood can make your head spin. It feels like everyone has an opinion – between your cousin’s Facebook advice, your neighbor’s “home remedies”, and Google sending you into a panic at 2 a.m., it’s hard to know what is true and what is someone’s opinion. 

So, let's take a moment to clear up some pregnancy myths we hear often from our patients at Memorial OB Care Clinic. No judgement – just real talk, real facts, and real care.  

Myth #1: “There’s no rush to get prenatal care. Women have been having babies forever.” 

Reality: It’s true – women have been having babies since the beginning of time – however, modern prenatal care exists for a reason: to keep both you and your baby healthy.  

Even if you feel fine, your body is working overtime to create another human. Regular checkups can catch problems early – like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or issues with the baby’s development – before they become serious.  

Prenatal care is important – and even if you haven’t had prenatal care yet, it’s never too late to start – no matter how early or late you are in your pregnancy. 

Myth #2: “I don’t have health insurance; I can’t get prenatal care.” 

Reality: This is why Memorial OB Care Clinic exists. We’re here to help you get the care you deserve, without worrying about cost. You’re not alone in your struggles – there are many women who don’t have health insurance or cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs for prenatal care. 

At the OB Care Clinic, you will see a talented and caring provider who will be your doctor throughout your pregnancy journey, from prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum. Our staff of doctors and nurses will help guide you through your routine prenatal care, answer your questions, provide support, monitor your baby, and offer resources like breastfeeding and childbirth classes.  

OB Care Clinic is about your care, not cost. We accept private insurance, Medicaid or self-pay. In addition, our OB Team will work with you to develop an affordable payment plan if you do not have insurance.  

Myth #3: “I don’t smoke cigarettes, so it’s okay if I vape while pregnant.” 

Reality: This one comes up a lot, and we know quitting vapes can be hard. But the simple truth is vaping while pregnant is not safe. E-cigarettes still contain nicotine and other harmful substances that can affect your baby’s brain and lung development.  

In addition to being harmful to your baby, vaping is not beneficial to your own health during pregnancy. Vaping can cause lung dysfunction, and studies suggest a link between e-cigarettes usage and an increase in postpartum depression. Smoking has also been well established to be associated with delayed wound healing and complications in surgeries, making recovery from labor and delivery more difficult.  

If you’re trying to cut back or quit vaping, speak with your provider or nurse to learn more.  

Myth #4: “It’s normal to feel super stressed and anxious during pregnancy – there's nothing I can do about it.” 

Reality: Yes, some stress is totally normal. However, chronic stress during pregnancy can have impacts on your health and your baby’s development. While we understand you can’t be zen all the time, it is important to seek support and ask for help.  

Whether it’s talking to someone, taking a walk, or listening to your favorite music or podcast, it’s important to prioritize your mental health and ask for help when you need it. Prenatal care isn’t just about your body – it's about your whole well-being.  

Myth #5: “I can’t go to the clinic if I have my other kids and can’t find childcare.” 

Reality: Many OB clinics are used to the whole crew rolling in. Most of our staff are parents just like you – we get it, sometimes the kids must tag along. Our team is here to do everything we can to help make it work, including scheduling your appointment to a time that works for you.  

Don’t put off your prenatal care for childcare issues. You don’t need to be “put together” to take care of yourself. Show up as you are – we're here to help you with real life, not the Instagram version of it.  

Most Important: You deserve real care. Period.  

Pregnancy is a big deal – physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally. You deserve quality and compassionate care, even if you may not have insurance or be in the perfect situation. 

No judgement,  – just answers to your questions and support in your journey from a medical team that’s here for you.  

If you’re pregnant, no matter how far along, and need help, come see us. We’ll walk you through every step of your journey – because you’re not alone. We are here for you.  

• 📍 Memorial OB Care Clinic (located at Memorial Hospital for Women) 1890 W. Gauthier Road 
• Suite 205 
• Lake Charles, LA 70605 
• 📞 Call 337.562.0510 to learn more or book your first appointment 
• 💬 DM us on Instagram or Facebook 

Resources: 

• National Library of Medicine 
• Center of Excellence in Women’s Health 
• CDC 
• NIH