Pregnancy is a beautiful time for the parents to be, especially for the expecting mothers. However, this time is extremely difficult for the young parents too as they may fear doing the simplest things as it may cause harm for the baby.

You may have heard about not eating certain foods during pregnancy. Also that papaya can induce miscarriage.

Wondering if that’s right or simply a myth.

This blog by Karepedia will check the authenticity of this statement. Let's see if pregnant women can eat papaya or not.

Papaya and Pregnancy

Papaya is mostly native in central and southern America. Eating papaya in pregnancy is okay, but it should be ripened enough, otherwise, it can lead to miscarriage.

One can always eat a cup of papaya to induce early periods. But in terms of pregnancy, there are certain restrictions in eating unripe papaya. One cannot take any chance because pregnancy is a phase where every woman enjoys and will be looking forward to meeting their little ones.

In spite of these happy preparations, it is a matter of great responsibility. It is required to take care of the nutrition and health of the expecting mother as it directly impacts the developing foetus.

“What to eat” and “What to not eat” happen to be the most important questions for those nine months in pregnancy.

Papaya is considered as one of the foods which many people believe can cause harm to the body when consumed during pregnancy.

Eating ripe papaya is beneficial for pregnancy whereas consuming unripe papaya is not recommended.

Unripe papaya has a component called papain and latex. Presence of latex in the body may be perceived as the prostaglandins which may encourage labour that will often lead to miscarriage.

The presence of papain in unripe papaya is not good for the foetus. It weakens the membrane which is around the foetus.

Ripe Papaya and Unripe Papaya

• Ripe papaya is a great source of beta-carotene, fibre , folate , potassium and vitamins A, B, and C. It has a yellow coloured skin.

• Unripe papaya has a green skin. It is a rich source of latex and papain. These elements are not good for the growing foetus.

Benefits of Eating Ripe Papaya

• Ripe papaya is a good source of vitamin A, B, C, potassium and beta-carotene, which is important during pregnancy for the baby’s neurological development.

• Vitamins in papaya improve immunity, which prevents various infections.

• Papaya facilitates digestion; the typical constipation problem during pregnancy is often countered naturally.

• Papaya can help overcome morning sickness.

• Having papaya to treat viral illnesses during pregnancy may help increase the platelet count.

• Having the proper amount of ripe papayas helps increase milk production.

Why Should You Avoid Latex in Papaya ?

The type of latex in unripe papaya should be avoided by pregnant women because:

• It might trigger marked uterine contractions, leading to early labour.

• It contains papain which your body may mistake for the prostaglandins sometimes used to induce labour. It may also weaken vital membranes that support the foetus.

• It is a common allergen that could trigger a dangerous reaction.

Unripe papaya in pregnancy can be very harmful to the female. Here are some negative effects of eating papaya in pregnancy

• Cause uterine contractions

• Hampers foetal development

• Harmful to the female with a history of abortion or premature labour

• Can cause kidney stones

• May raise intraabdominal pressure

• Affects blood sugar levels (harmful for a female with diabetes or a history of diabetes)

• Can cause skin discoloration

• Weakens vital foetal membranes

• Can cause haemorrhage and edema

• Increases bowel movements

• Affects the nervous system

• Is abortifacient in nature (abortion-causing)

• Is teratogenic in nature (harmful for the development of the foetus)

Precautions To Be Followed Before Consuming Papaya

• Do not consume unripe papayas, especially during the first trimester of your pregnancy.

• Do not consume papayas that have spots of brown or green on them, are squishy or have mould growing on them.

• Do not consume the papaya seeds. Consume only the flesh of the papaya after removing the seeds and the adjoining parts.

• Do not consume the skin of the papaya.

• Do not consume the fruit if it is seeping latex (a white sticky liquid).

• Do not over-consume the fruit. Maintain moderation as with all foods.

FAQ

1.How many papayas Should A Pregnant Woman Eat?

Ans : During pregnancy, it is safe to consume a bowl of fully ripe papaya. However, if you experience any digestive issues such as indigestion, constipation, or vomiting, it is advisable to stop consuming papaya immediately and consult a healthcare provider or a gynaecologist.