Is the Myth True? Visiting a Midwife During Pregnancy Leads to Premature Birth?

According to folk beliefs, pregnant women should refrain from certain activities to ensure the baby's health. However, is every restriction valid? Is the notion that visiting a midwife during pregnancy leads to premature birth accurate? Let's explore the information surrounding whether pregnant women should visit midwives.

Traditionally, Should Pregnant Women Avoid Visiting Midwives?

According to folklore, it's strongly advised that pregnant women avoid visiting midwives, especially in the first three months of pregnancy. The belief is that visiting a midwife may transfer the energy from the newborn to the unborn child, causing developmental issues and potential miscarriage.

Additionally, there's a belief that when two babies meet, the one born earlier will 'call' the one in the womb to join them outside. Hence, there's a superstition that visiting a midwife leads to premature birth, and pregnant women should avoid it. However, these are just age-old beliefs.

Is it safe for pregnant women to visit midwives?

Currently, there is no scientific evidence indicating that pregnant women visiting midwives leads to preterm birth. Premature birth is a highly complex issue with various causes, not attributed to midwife visits. Therefore, mothers don't need to overly worry when visiting midwives during pregnancy.

However, if the health of the expectant mother is not good or she experiences morning sickness in the first three months of pregnancy, leading to fatigue, it is advisable to limit movement, including visiting midwives, as excessive movement can pose risks to the fetus.

The likelihood of preterm birth depends on various factors such as the mother's health, the fetus, and conditions during the pregnancy. Therefore, during pregnancy, mothers should provide adequate nutrition, undergo regular check-ups to monitor the fetus's development.

Additionally, if there are any alarming signs regarding the fetus's health, mothers should promptly seek medical examination and follow the guidance of specialized doctors.

Essential Considerations When Expectant Mothers Visit Midwives

After giving birth, the mother's condition needs a considerable recovery period. Depending on regional beliefs, the timing of visiting midwives varies. Some suggest visiting in the early months to send good wishes to the baby, ensuring a healthy appetite and sleep. However, in some regions, it's recommended to visit midwives only from the second month onwards to ensure both mother and baby have ample rest time.

Avoid Visiting Midwives in Hospitals

Hospitals, with numerous patients, harbor various potentially harmful viruses. Unless it's urgent, such as for prenatal or medical check-ups, expectant mothers should limit visits to avoid infectious diseases.

Furthermore, during the postpartum period in hospitals, the mother's body is weakened and requires substantial rest. It's advisable for mothers to visit midwives after being discharged for the safety of both themselves and the midwives.

Avoid Visiting the Maternity Ward While Ill

If an expectant mother is unwell with weakened health, it's advisable to refrain from visiting the maternity ward during this time. Contracting respiratory-transmitted illnesses can easily transmit to midwives and newborns. Therefore, mothers should ensure good health, boost immunity to prevent bacterial or viral infections from the environment.

Avoid Bringing Children Along

When visiting the maternity ward, mothers should not bring along young children. At this time, both the mother and the newborn need a quiet space, avoiding loud noises for rest. Additionally, curious and playful children may pose a danger to themselves or the newborn.

Avoid Hugging or Kissing the Newborn

This is a recommendation from doctors as hugging or kissing the newborn can become a potential health risk. According to studies, newborns have an underdeveloped immune system and are susceptible to infections transmitted through saliva. Therefore, mothers should absolutely refrain from hugging, kissing, or speaking too loudly to ensure safety when near the baby. 

Here, we provide information for mothers on whether pregnant women should visit new mothers. Therefore, there's no need to worry excessively about this issue. Strive to maintain the best nutritional regimen to ensure the optimal development of the fetus. Wishing you and your baby a safe and healthy pregnancy! 

• [Q&A] Should a Pregnant Wife Attend a Funeral? Why?
• Hellp Syndrome during Pregnancy: What is it? Signs and Preventive Measures
• Is it Safe to Use Sunscreen during Pregnancy? Which Types are Recommended