
10+ Fascinating Pregnancy Superstitions from Around the World Author: HerPillow Co. Tags: Pregnancy, Superstitions, HerPillow Co., Gender Prediction, Safe Pregnancy, Maternity Tips, Sleep Support
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Discover the most fascinating and bizarre pregnancy superstitions from around the world. From eclipses to cravings, HerPillow Co. explores the meaning behind these age-old beliefs — and how to stay truly comfortable during pregnancy.
🌍 10+ Fascinating Pregnancy Superstitions from Around the World
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey — but it has always been wrapped in mystery. Across every culture, generations have passed down pregnancy superstitions to protect mom and baby. Some are heartwarming, others hilarious, and a few are downright strange.
At HerPillow Co., we believe in embracing both tradition and comfort. So, let’s explore the top superstitions expectant moms still hear today — and how to sleep better through all of them!
👶 1. Don’t Announce Too Early
This global superstition says not to tell anyone you’re pregnant until after the first trimester. It’s believed that early announcements might “jinx” the pregnancy. While today this is often just caution, it remains a deeply followed belief.
🐱 2. Cats Can Steal Baby’s Breath (Europe/US)
An old tale warns against letting cats near a newborn. The superstition claims that cats can “steal the baby’s breath” — likely a way to warn about hygiene or accidental suffocation. No truth here, but it’s an eerie one!
🌒 3. Avoid Eclipses — Protect the Baby (India, Mexico, Philippines)
In many countries, women are told to stay indoors during an eclipse, believing it can cause birth defects. Some wear red ribbons or safety pins on their belly for protection.
🔪 4. Don’t Use Sharp Objects Over Your Belly (South America)
It’s believed that cutting over your belly with scissors or knives will lead to birthmarks or cuts on the baby. Expectant moms are told to avoid sharp tools during this sacred time.
🍫 5. Cravings Predict the Baby’s Gender
A timeless one:
Sweet cravings? Girl.
Salty or sour cravings? Boy.
This superstition is still a favorite at gender reveal parties.
🪞 6. Avoid Looking in the Mirror (China)
Too much mirror-gazing while pregnant is believed to attract spirits or lead to vanity in your child. It’s also thought to reflect energy that may “disturb” baby’s development.
👕 7. No Baby Clothes Until After Birth (Russia, Turkey, Nigeria)
In many cultures, buying baby things before birth is seen as tempting fate. Parents wait until after the birth to bring anything into the home — just in case.
👃 8. A Wide Nose Means a Girl (Western)
If your nose grows during pregnancy, people might say you’re having a girl — and she’s “stealing your beauty.” There’s no science behind this, but it’s a superstition that refuses to fade.
🧿 9. Wear Red Strings to Ward Off Evil (Middle East, Latin America)
To protect against the evil eye, many pregnant women wear red strings, blue beads, or pins. These are believed to guard against jealousy and negativity that could affect the baby.
🍝 10. Food Beliefs Shape Baby’s Future (Japan, Korea, Italy)
In Japan, spicy food = hot-tempered baby.
In Korea, too much black food = darker skin.
In Italy, not satisfying cravings = birthmarks.
These food-based beliefs may sound odd, but they're still honored in many homes.
💖 Do Superstitions Affect Pregnancy?
While most of these traditions are harmless, a few can cause anxiety or delay necessary preparations. If you’re pregnant, remember:
Trust your body and your doctor
Enjoy traditions, but don’t let them stress you
Take care of yourself with modern comforts
🛏️ Modern Comfort Over Myths — Sleep with HerPillow Co.
Whether you’re dodging eclipses or laughing at cravings, one thing that matters most during pregnancy is sleep. That’s why we created HerPillow Co. Pregnancy Pillows — expertly designed for full-body support, better posture, and maximum rest.
✅ Supports your growing bump
✅ Relieves hip, neck, and back pain
✅ Eco-friendly & breathable materials
✅ Trusted by moms across the USA
Superstitions come and go — but comfort is real.
👉 Shop our best-selling pregnancy pillows now at HerPillow.Store
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📚 Final Thoughts from HerPillow Co.
Pregnancy superstitions may not be rooted in science, but they’re part of our human story — ways we’ve tried to make sense of life, birth, and love. Whether you follow them or just find them fun, they’re a reminder that pregnancy is both physical and deeply emotional.
At HerPillow Co., we honor both tradition and science — and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to feel better during pregnancy?
✨ Try the HerPillow Co. Difference → HerPillow.Store