Debunking Common Myths in Childbirth: Evidence-Based Insights

By Giuditta Tornetta, CD/CLC, Clinical Hypnotherapist, (23 yrs, 1,100+ births)

Even in 2025, I still meet families—and occasionally clinicians—who reference outdated “rules” about childbirth and newborn care. Below is a rapid-fire myth check backed by the best data I could find. Use it to advocate for yourself (or your clients) the next time someone states “we have to…” without evidence.

Understanding Childbirth Myths

Myth 1 – “Induce Before 41 Weeks or the Baby Could Die”

Large cohort reviews show that the absolute stillbirth risk between 41 and 42 weeks is about 1 per 1,000 pregnancies. This risk is comparable to everyday dangers we accept, like driving for four years. Routine early induction exposes every mother-baby pair to the side effects of Pitocin for one rare event. Informed consent means addressing both sides of that equation. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Myth 2 – “Breech Equals Automatic C-Section”

Careful, criteria-based vaginal breech birth has a similar perinatal mortality rate—also around 1 per 1,000. However, many hospitals have lost the skill to perform it. Seek a provider who still trains in vaginal breech to keep your options open. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Myth 3 – “Once a Cesarean, Always a Cesarean”

Planned VBACs are supported by ACOG as well as Canadian and UK guidelines. Pooled data show the risk of uterine-rupture-related death is only 0–0.8 per 1,000, significantly lower than the cumulative surgical risks of having multiple C-sections. Refusing VBAC based on “policy” is more about protecting the institution than providing evidence-based care. ontariomidwives.ca

Myth 4 – “Get the Epidural Right Away; It Has No Downsides”

Receiving an epidural early (before 4 cm dilation) has been linked, in several meta-analyses, to longer labors (average +30 minutes in the first stage, and +15–45 minutes in the second stage) and maternal fevers in 15–25% of cases. This often triggers NICU observation and antibiotics for what may be a perfectly healthy baby. Balance relief with movement, hydration, and doula support before deciding. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Myth 5 – “You Don’t Have Milk; Supplement So Baby Won’t Starve”

It is normal for babies to lose up to 10% of their weight in the first week. If your baby is alert, nursing 8–12 times a day and wetting diapers, then milk is on the way. Early formula can disrupt gut flora and delay “gut closure”, increasing the risk of infections and allergies; even one bottle can modify pH and bacterial species towards the formula profile. Focus on the feed-sleep cycle instead of the scale. drjaygordon.com

Myth 6 – “Avoid Broccoli, Garlic, and Onions—Everything Gives Babies Colic”

Flavor compounds can reach your milk, but various studies demonstrate that most infants can digest a wide range of maternal diets without issues. When fussiness occurs, try an elimination-and-retest strategy rather than enforcing blanket bans. True food sensitivities are rare, and introducing variety benefits your baby’s future palate. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Myth 7 – “Colic is Just Gas; Try Drops”

Gas volume actually increases after crying bouts, not before. Only 10–15% of persistent criers have true colic, which is often related to dairy-protein allergies. For the majority of infants, methods like swaddling, side-lying, white noise, and skin-to-skin contact will soothe them far better than medications like simethicone. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Myth 8 – “One Formula Top-Off Won’t Matter”

Because an infant’s intestinal lining remains porous for weeks, early formula can change microbial seeding and alter antibody coating. If supplementation is necessary for medical reasons, consider using donor milk when possible. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Evidence Matters

It's crucial to remember that evidence rarely supports one-size-fits-all mandates. Always ask for absolute risk numbers, explore alternatives, and remember: your body, your baby, your choice. Continuous doula care effectively reduces non-medically indicated cesareans and increases satisfaction because we keep evidence—and your voice—at the forefront. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Do you have another myth bothering you? Share it in the comments, and I’ll address it in the next installment.

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