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Eclipses are a natural phenomenon that occurs time and again. Today, we understand what causes an eclipse. We know that it is an astronomical event, one that is beautiful to witness. Back in the days when there wasn’t space for facts, fiction took over. This paved the way for several beliefs, some of which we may have to discount. A lot of people believed that a solar eclipse was an evil occurrence. They went on to think that women, in particular, needed protection during a solar eclipse. Can a solar eclipse have an impact on your pregnancy? Should you be hiding in the shadows when this phenomenon occurs? Let’s find out!
The Effect Of A Solar Eclipse On Pregnancy
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An eclipse essentially occurs when the earth, sun, and moon are aligned in a certain way. During a solar eclipse, the moon is positioned in between the sun and the earth, due to which a shadow is cast by the moon on the earth. The shadow obscures the view of the sun fully or partially. When the shadow entirely blocks the sunlight, the sun tends to look like a ring of fire.
People believe that during this time, extra care has to be given to pregnant women. They think that a solar eclipse can harm expectant mothers. For example, some people believe that a pregnant woman should not venture out of the house. The belief goes on to say that if this is done, it may cause her to have a premature delivery. Another common belief is that pregnant women should not touch or hold a knife and other sharp objects. According to this belief, if they do, their baby will be born with a cleft lip.
However, no matter how popular these beliefs, most of them are not backed by science.
Staying Safe During A Solar Eclipse
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Although science disregards certain beliefs, there is a reason why these beliefs cropped up in the first place. Here are the reasons why these beliefs may ring true, and the safety measures you must follow for the same:
- Pregnant Women Must Not Step Out During A Solar Eclipse
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As we mentioned before, it is believed that pregnant women must not step out as it can be harmful for them and cause premature birth. While there is no evidence to support this, there may be a more logical reasoning for it. During a solar eclipse, particularly a full one, daylight is obscured so much that it may look like it is night already. People back then were probably worried that a heavily pregnant woman might trip and hurt herself thanks to the lack of sunlight.
- Keep Knives And Sharp Objects Away
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This is another common belief that has a logical explanation, much like the previous one. During the eclipse, it can get slightly dark due to the sunlight being obstructed. People wanted to keep knives and sharp objects away to ensure that their pregnant women didn’t harm themselves accidentally in the darkness. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that touching sharp objects during a solar eclipse can cause a cleft lip.
- Avoid Drinking And Eating During An Eclipse
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You’re not just starving yourself, you’re also starving your unborn baby, and nothing good can come out of this. There is no scientific evidence to back this one up. Keep yourself hydrated at all times, and follow a well-balanced diet, whether there is an eclipse or not. Do not deprive yourself of water as it can cause dehydration.
- Never Look Directly At The Sun During An Eclipse
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This belief is strongly backed by science, and here’s the thing — it holds good for everybody, pregnant or not. Also, it applies to days when there is no solar eclipse as well. The sun has UV rays, and gazing at it can harm your eye, particularly the retina. It can cause permanent damage (1). If you want to watch a solar eclipse, invest in glasses made specifically for this purpose. They have solar eclipse filters that can protect your eyes. Or, you can just watch the phenomenon on television.
Whether or not you choose to believe in the ancient superstitions is entirely up to you. Here’s what we have to say — a pregnant woman needs care all through her pregnancy, not just on the day of a solar eclipse. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below!
