The History of Pregnancy

An insufficient understanding of pregnancy through time?

Pregnancy has existed for as long as humanity itself. Yet our understanding of how pregnancy occurs and develops has changed significantly throughout history. Today, we have access to knowledge, technology, and healthcare that previous generations could only dream of, but the journey to this point has been long and shaped by both myths, mistakes, and major scientific breakthroughs.

Pregnancy Through History

In ancient civilizations, there was a limited understanding of how pregnancy occurred. Many cultures developed their own explanations of conception, often based on observation and belief. For example, some in ancient Egypt believed that a man’s semen mixed with a woman’s menstrual blood to create new life. These theories reflected the attempts of the time to understand the body without the knowledge we have today.

The Greek physician Soranus of Ephesus from the 2nd century AD wrote the work Gynecology, which for many years was one of the most influential texts on women’s health. His advice for women who wished to avoid pregnancy included holding their breath during intercourse and then coughing and doing abdominal exercises afterward. Today we know that this has no effect, but at the time it was considered useful knowledge. History clearly shows how limited the understanding of the female body has been over time.

From Myths to Science

In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, doctors and researchers slowly began to study the body more systematically. In the 16th century, the Belgian anatomist Andreas Vesalius contributed detailed studies of human anatomy, including the female reproductive system. These studies laid the foundation for a more precise understanding of pregnancy and fertility.

However, it was not until the 19th and 20th centuries that understanding truly accelerated. The discovery of the egg and sperm cell, along with the development of the microscope, made it possible to understand conception on a biological level. Since then, research in medicine and biology has provided us with far deeper insight into the course of pregnancy and fetal development.

In the 20th century, advances in prenatal care and obstetrics have made pregnancy and childbirth significantly safer. Ultrasound scans and modern diagnostic methods make it possible to follow the baby’s development and respond early if challenges arise. At the same time, progress in medicine and surgery has improved safety for both mother and child.

Knowledge Creates Security

Although we now know far more about pregnancy than previous generations, it can still feel overwhelming to navigate all the information you encounter while pregnant. There is plenty of advice available, but not all of it suits every body or life situation. Therefore, modern pregnancy care is not only about knowledge but also about support, reassurance, and understanding the individual woman.

Feeling informed and supported can make a big difference to both well-being and comfort throughout pregnancy. Knowledge provides the opportunity to make decisions that feel right for you and your body.

How MyBelly Supports You

At MyBelly, we work to support women before, during, and after pregnancy. We know that the body changes and that its needs change with it. That is why we design functional and feminine sportswear and swimwear that provide comfort, support, and freedom of movement during a time of great transformation.

Our goal is to make it easier for you to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle during pregnancy and in the time afterward. When your body feels well supported, it often becomes easier to stay active and take care of yourself.

We have also created a community focused on women and well-being. Here we share knowledge, experiences, and inspiration so you can feel less alone and more secure throughout pregnancy and motherhood.

At MyBelly, we believe that a healthy and supported mother creates the best foundation for both herself and her child.

Healthy mother, healthy baby – MyBelly