A Principal Midwifery Officer at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Felicia Martey Dodoo, has debunked the myth that pregnant women who eat eggs are destined to give birth to thieves.
According to her, eggs are highly nutritious and essential for foetal growth. She explained that poor nutrition during pregnancy could result in anaemia, low blood levels, and low birth weight in babies.
“It is not true that pregnant women who eat eggs will give birth to thieves,” she clarified.
Speaking on the GTV Breakfast Show on August 27, 2025, Mrs Dodoo also dismissed the widespread belief that pregnant women must double their food intake because they are “eating for two.” Instead, she advised that expectant mothers should focus on quality over quantity, with an additional 300–350 calories per day in the second trimester and 450 calories in the third trimester.
She further clarified that there is no scientific basis for claims that showering at night attracts spirits. “It is not true that when pregnant women shower at night, spirits will visit them,” she said.
On cravings, she explained that hormonal changes often drive them, but some could harm both mother and child if not managed properly. For example, eating clay may cause worm infestations and premature delivery, while inhaling the scent of earth or fuel could trigger respiratory problems.
Mrs Dodoo also cautioned against excessive iron intake, which could harm the baby, and warned against using herbal medicine during pregnancy. She recommended that expectant mothers include folic acid in their first-trimester diet.
She suggested foods such as garden eggs, kontomire, milk, fish, agushi, groundnuts, and turkey berries as nutritious options for pregnant women.
SOURCE: GBC Online
