Does an eclipse affect pregnancy?

Depending on the person being asked, they may believe that a solar eclipse can affect a woman's pregnancy. The theory between some cultures is that the eclipse will have a negative impact on the woman and the unborn child, such as the child having birth defects. Those that believe this theory provide a list of certain precautions a pregnant woman should take while an eclipse is happening.

One of those is that a pregnant woman shouldn't view the eclipse without some type of protection on their eyes. Most importantly, the pregnant woman should stay at home while the eclipse is happening.

There are many different beliefs and superstitions held by various cultures that a lunar or solar eclipse has a negative effect on expectant mothers and their unborn babies. In India, it is a firmly held belief that an eclipse interferes with the development of the baby, as it can lead to physical deformities, such as birthmarks or cleft lips. There are also specific 'rules' one must follow to avoid the danger of an eclipse.

These include: don't use sharp objects such as a knife, scissors, or a needle, and don't eat cooked foods. Cover the windows with newspaper or heavy curtains so that no rays of the eclipse can get in your home. Don't take a bath for the duration of the eclipse. The detrimental effects of the eclipse are believed to affect pregnant women who are in the direct rays of the sun or moon.