In India it is believed that eclipse rays can
harm the fetus and as such pregnant women should not go out during solar or
lunar eclipse. Lots of other rituals are followed to protect the unborn baby
and pregnant woman during solar or lunar eclipse. Read on to know more about
myths and facts on eclipse and pregnancy.
When a woman is pregnant, she has to hear a lot of
instructions from elders. Some of them are myths while some have practically
faced facts. Well, the woman, specially if it is her first time, gets totally
confused and is unable to distinguish between myths and facts. A reliable and
trustworthy source is important here.
Lot of things that pregnant women hears have no scientific
base and so it is advisable that if you are pregnant, you should find out what
is true and what not from a reliable source. You must have also heard about the
effects of solar or lunar eclipse
on a pregnant woman. However, there has been no scientific cause or reason
behind going out in eclipse that would have harmed any fetus.
Is it Safe to Step out
During Eclipse for Pregnant Women?
In many religions and culture, pregnant women are forbidden
from going out when there is either solar or lunar eclipse. Some do not even allow
eating or drinking during the period of the eclipse. Many still follow this
tradition and they give the reason of taking precautions.
There is no scientific reason or evidence that shows that
going out during an eclipse can harm a fetus.
Many women avoid this because if due to any reason there is some other
complication, she might get blamed for going out during the time of an eclipse.
Some avoid because they do not wish to hurt the emotions of their elders. So,
it is completely a personal choice.
(Chandra Grahan) Lunar
Eclipse 2011 Timings in India
Chandra Grahan or lunar eclipse will take place on 10th
December in 2011 in India. It will start at 6.14 pm in the evening and will end
at 9.48 pm. Along with India, Chandra Grahan or lunar eclipse can be seen in
Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Australia and
United States. As per the indications of NASA the timings for eclipse will be
same all over India.
An Overview on Eclipse and Pregnancy
You must be aware that moon and earth are
moving. It is obvious that sometime or the other they might come in the same
line with the source of light and energy that is sun. This causes eclipse. So,
eclipse is mere shadow and logically, a shadow cannot cause any harm to the
fetus.
In fact, there is a list of things that are said to be
avoided during an eclipse. Most of these are myths and there is no concrete
reason or evidence. Actually, a solar eclipse is a wonderful experience and no
one should miss it. The only thing important is that you take proper precautions
and save your eyes because if you directly glare at the sun it will harm your retina.
The best thing is to find out details and facts from
reliable websites on internet and read articles written by professionals and
knowledgeable persons. This will help you learn more about facts and myths and
you will be easily able to distinguish between the two. Always view things
practically and remember science has explanation for complications during pregnancy.
Taking bath after eclipse or not eating or drinking during
that period may be dangerous for pregnant woman. The most important thing is
that if the woman is extra conscious and gets anxious about all things, this
might raise her blood pressure and harm her as well as the fetus.
So, the vital point is that a pregnant woman should be
regularly checked up by a good doctor and she must take care of her diet, rest
and follow a moderate exercise regime. All this will help in comfortable
pregnancy period and will also help her have a less painful labour and child
birth. Follow the instructions of the doctor and pay attention to the signs
that your body gives you from time to time.
