Can Papaya Cause Miscarriage in Early Pregnancy?

If you are in your early pregnancy, you must be hearing many whispers about papaya and miscarriage risks. It’s completely normal to have many questions running through your mind, such as, Is papaya bad for pregnancy?

Can papaya cause miscarriage in early pregnancy? 

According to Dr. Namita Kotia (MBBS, MS – Obstetrics & Gynaecology & IVF Specialist), papaya contains a latex substance that can trigger uterine contractions. Since your body is already dealing with enough changes, it is important to be mindful of what you eat. 

Let’s deep dive into this topic, so by the end of this blog, all your doubts about Can papaya cause miscarriage in early pregnancy? Ds papaya safe for pregnancy? & does raw papaya cause miscarriage? will be clear.

Can Raw Papaya Cause Miscarriage?

Is papaya bad for pregnancy? Don’t worry, you are not alone; this is a widely discussed topic by many women like you. So, the answer to this question is yes, raw or unripe papaya can potentially lead to complications, including miscarriage, in your early pregnancy.

Papaya contains high levels of papain and latex, both of which can be harmful for your pregnancy. The latex in raw papaya acts similarly to prostaglandins. Prostaglandin is a hormone-like substance in your body that can trigger uterine contractions. 

Why to Avoid Raw Papaya?

In early pregnancy, it is advised to avoid the raw papaya because the milky white latex substance can:

• Trigger uterine contractions.
• Weaken vital membranes that support the fetus.
• Increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.

Safe Consumption of Papaya During Pregnancy

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to give up papaya completely, but before consuming papaya, you should consult your gynecologist first. You can eat a fully ripe papaya by:

• Washing it thoroughly before cutting.
• Remove all seeds and skin.
• Eat papaya in moderation; just a small bowl a few times a week does the trick.
• Avoid eating it on an empty stomach to prevent digestive discomfort.

If you are not sure about a certain fruit or vegetable, just consult your fertility expert right away to avoid any complications in the future.

Read Also: Which Food Can Cause Miscarriage? – Dr Namita

What are the Benefits of Eating Ripe Papaya During Pregnancy?

You can avoid papaya during your pregnancy, but if you consume it in moderate amounts, then it can have some health benefits:

1. Rich in Vitamin C: It’s loaded with vitamin C, which gives your immune system a boost. That really matters when your body’s working overtime.
2. High in Fiber: There’s plenty of fiber, so it helps keep things moving and keep your gut health healthy.
3. Contains Folate: Papaya also has folate, which supports healthy brain and spinal cord development for your baby.
4. Good Source of Vitamin A: It promotes healthy skin, vision, and cell growth for both you and your baby.
5. Antioxidants: It help you to fight inflammation and support your overall wellness.

Alternatives to Papaya During Pregnancy

When you are pregnant, eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods really matters. if you are looking for alternate fruit options to papaya in pregnancy then here are some fruits you can consider:

• Apples: They are loaded with fiber and vitamins, plus they are good for your digestion.
• Bananas: Bananas bring a boost of potassium, which helps with leg cramps and gives you quick energy.
• Oranges: Oranges are full of vitamin C and folate, both important for your baby’s neural tube development.
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): Full of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.
• Mangoes: Ripe mangoes are a great pick too, with lots of vitamins A and C.

You should remember to wash all your fruit well before eating.

Read Also: गर्भपात के लक्षण (Miscarriage Symptoms in Hindi) क्या होते है? – डॉ नमिता

Conclusion

So, can papaya cause miscarriage in early pregnancy? The answer is yes, raw papaya can create complications in pregnancy. 

Dr. Namita Kotia (MBBS, MS – Obstetrics & Gynaecology & IVF Specialist) recommends skipping raw papaya and choosing safer fruits instead. Find out what’s right for you by consulting your fertility expert. They will help you pick the right fruits that support both you and your baby. 

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it comes with a lot of questions and concerns. We at Aastha Fertility Care stand as one of Jaipur’s most trusted fertility centers, providing the right information that helps you feel confident in the choices you make for your pregnancy journey.

Whether you have questions about nutrition, prenatal care, or fertility, we are ready to help you every step of the way.

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