A few years ago, my husband and I were being introduced to some of the fascinating and interesting traditional Chinese beliefs and the taboos that were associated with these beliefs. We do realize that there are certain truths pertaining to these beliefs and taboos. Anyway, at present; I am expecting. My friends (Chinese as well as non-Chinese) have often reminded me to observe certain taboos during my pregnancy so that I could be blessed with good luck all along the way. I sincerely hope that I could be enlightened on these aspects – pregnancy, traditional beliefs and taboos.

Observing certain taboos during pregnancy has always been a strong belief among most of the Chinese women. Some non-Chinese women have also been known to observe some of these taboos. Traditional Chinese beliefs reiterate that if certain taboos are not observed; negative happenings might occur.

Well, it is believed that the demolition of a building should not be carried out when there is an expectant mother around. If the left portion of a building is demolished; it is believed that the left hand of the fetus could be affected. Similarly, if the right portion of the building is demolished; then the right hand of the fetus could be affected.

Besides demolition, it is also believed that renovations on the residential building should not be carried out when a member of the family is pregnant. The renovations could possibly cause the fetus to be inflicted with abnormalities.

An expectant mother should avoid cleaning and clearing blocked drain as well. Deformity of the ears could occur if this taboo is not observed by the pregnant lady.

An expectant woman is discouraged from performing or carrying out any form of stitching or sewing at all; while seated on her own bed. Stitching or sewing, while seated on her own bed; might give rise to an abnormality at the lips of the fetus or baby.