Maybe it's because childbirth is such an awesome thing, or perhaps it's because despite all the scientific breakthroughs there's still something magical about it.

Remember the old wives' tale that a stork delivered the babies to the parents?

Well, hopefully there aren't many who believe this, but there are some myths that still exist about pregnancy and childbirth.

Before we even get to pregnancy, there are 'theories' about how a woman can get pregnant. Contrary to what some men believe, the woman can definitely get pregnant even if she is on top during sex. Also, there is no truth to the idea that the woman cannot get pregnant if she has sex in water, standing up, or if she takes a shower immediately after.

Myths

Standing on your head after sex can increase your chances of becoming pregnant.

Truth: Some experts say that lying down after sex for 20 to 30 minutes can boost chances of conception because it keeps the sperm inside. Standing on your head has not been proven to aid in conception (and you might hurt your neck in the process).

The shape and height of your stomach can indicate the baby's gender.

Truth: The shape and height of your stomach is determined by your muscle tone, uterine tone, and the position the baby is in. The popular belief that women pregnant with boys carry low stomachs and those with girls carry a high one just isn't true. Talk to your doctor about getting an ultrasound to determine the child's sex.

Don't hold your hands above your head or the baby will become entangled in the umbilical cord and die.

Truth: The incidence of the cord getting around the baby's neck (called a nuchal cord) occurs in about a third of all births. It has to do with the twists and turns the baby makes.

Childbirth myths

Small women can't birth large babies.

Having a home birth is dangerous, hospital births are safer.

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After having a child, refrain from cutting the child's hair before he gets to a certain age because that will make him mute.

General tips

Work with a reputable doctor.

Listen carefully to your doctor and ask all the questions you want.

Be wary of 'advice' you get from anybody other than your doctor (especially if it totally contradicts with what your doctor recommends).

Be careful of taking medication while pregnant unless prescribed by a doctor who knows you are pregnant.

- Myths taken from http://kidshealth.org/, http://pregnancy.about.com, and www.geocities.com