Solar Eclipse 2023: The Real Reason Pregnant Women Shouldn't Use Scissors During Solar Eclipses!

Thursday, April 20, 2023, 10:43

Pretty sure that the majority of you have heard this claim - Pregnant Women Shouldn't Use Scissors During Solar Eclipses - ever wondered why?

While there are several urban legends and superstitions connected to it such as that it will harm the baby and these beliefs are not limited to the Indians.

A lunar eclipse was believed to occur when a bite was taken from the moon by the Aztecs. This idea was translated into the Mexican superstition that if a pregnant woman observed an eclipse, a bite would occur on the face of her unborn child. The Hindu text attributes the eclipse to the demon Rahu, who ate the moon and sun [1][2].

In many cultures, including India, a solar or lunar eclipse is considered to be a bad omen for a pregnant woman, resulting in physical deformities, cleft lips, or birthmarks for the child.

Let's take a closer look at whether these claims are actually true.

Pregnant Women Shouldn't Use Scissors During Solar Eclipses

First of all, there is no scientific evidence to support this superstition, but it is firmly embedded in our culture that you or other family members may be concerned about your infant's safety during an eclipse [3].

Therefore, why would anyone claim that pregnant women should not use scissors during a solar eclipse?

As the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun during a solar eclipse, the Sun becomes completely blocked, which is why it becomes naturally dark. However, with today's technology, turning on the light can alleviate this problem.

Historically, however, this was not the case. During ancient times, there was no electricity. Our ancestors probably experienced darkness during eclipses and therefore desired to protect people, especially women.

Additionally, it is possible that they also wanted women to rest from regular chores such as cooking [4].

Is It Safe For Pregnant Women To Use Scissors During Solar Eclipses?

Yes, completely.

In the olden days, there was no electricity, and a pregnant woman was therefore at risk of cutting herself, causing blood loss [5].

During an injury, the mother's foetal protection is enhanced by the thick uterine walls and amniotic fluid, which prevent shock to the foetus. The foetus, however, becomes increasingly vulnerable to injury as it develops and is no longer protected by the pelvic bones.

Early in pregnancy, your body starts to prepare for all the energy and stretching it requires to grow and deliver a baby. Joints loosen as your body prepares for delivery. During pregnancy, you may feel sleepy, nauseated, distracted, and overwhelmed. This can lead to more slips, falls, scrapes, or bruises than you would if you were not pregnant. If a significant fall occurs, you should consult your doctor [6].

More importantly, if the cut or wound becomes infected, it can lead to serious problems during pregnancy, including hearing loss, visual impairment, blindness, learning difficulties, and epilepsy for the unborn child [7].

Minor cuts or scrapes can be cleaned with soap and water or with an over-the-counter (OTC) antiseptic wash, and the wound should be covered with a bandage. If you notice unexplained bleeding, talk to your doctor immediately [8].