Myths About Early Pregnancy Safety

Trigger Warning: This post discusses early pregnancy, including topics such as miscarriage and common symptoms.

The first twelve weeks of pregnancy are a period of incredible change and development. It is also the stage where myths and outdated advice are most likely to cause confusion or even unnecessary worry. By looking more closely at some of the most common misconceptions, we can separate fact from fiction and give expectant mothers the confidence to make informed decisions.

Myth 1: Early pregnancy is fragile so you should rest constantly

Many people believe that moving too much or carrying out daily activities can harm the pregnancy. In truth, unless you have been advised otherwise by your midwife or doctor, gentle movement is not only safe but beneficial. Regular activity supports circulation, helps reduce fatigue, and may ease common discomforts such as bloating or backache. The key is to avoid overexertion and high-risk activities while listening to your body.

Myth 2: Morning sickness means your baby is healthy

It is often said that nausea and vomiting are a positive sign that hormones are doing their job. While morning sickness is common in early pregnancy, its presence or absence does not directly reflect foetal health. Some women have very little nausea yet go on to have completely healthy pregnancies. What matters most is maintaining hydration, eating what you can manage, and seeking medical advice if symptoms become severe.

Myth 3: You should eat for two from the very beginning

Early pregnancy does not require doubling your calorie intake. What your body needs in the first trimester is quality, not quantity. Nutrients such as Folate, Vitamin D, Iron and Iodine are especially important for early cell division and neural development. Overeating can increase discomforts such as bloating and heartburn. A balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods is far more beneficial than simply eating more.

Myth 4: Miscarriage is usually caused by something you did

This myth sadly creates unnecessary guilt. The majority of early miscarriages are linked to chromosomal abnormalities that occur by chance and cannot be prevented. Everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or carrying light shopping are not harmful. While it is important to avoid smoking, alcohol, and certain medications, the vast majority of miscarriages are beyond a woman’s control and are not caused by something she has done wrong.

Myth 5: Any supplement will do in the first trimester

Not all multivitamins are suitable for pregnancy. Some contain high levels of vitamin A which can be unsafe for your baby, while others may lack the specific nutrients needed at this stage. Choosing a prenatal formula designed for the first twelve weeks is essential to ensure the right balance of Folate, Vitamin D, Iron, Iodine and antioxidants that support both maternal energy and early foetal development.

Supporting You from the Very Start

Vital Essence 1 is a specialist multivitamin designed for the first twelve weeks of pregnancy, delivering targeted nutrition to support early foetal development and maternal wellbeing. Each serving provides 400µg active Folate, plus Vitamin D, Iron, Iodine and antioxidants to aid cell division, neural tube formation, and energy.

If you'd like to learn more about our recommended first trimester essentials, read here.