Are papaya and pineapple really dangerous for pregnant women? Doctor explains

Pregnant women are a group of people who often get free health and diet advice from everyone who crosses paths with them. It can be as annoying as confusing for the women, especially if they are first-time moms. In Kerala, nutrition tips such as 'Don't have pappaya,' or 'Don't touch pinepapple' are among the most shared warnings that pregnant women come across. However, what's the scientific truth behind it? Dr Marie Simon, gynaecologist at Amrita Urban Health Centre in Kaloor, Ernakulam, explains. 

How dangerous are these fruits?
According to Dr Marie, ripened papaya or pineapple does not affect pregnancy in any way. She explains, "As for papaya, the belief that it's bad for the baby comes from the fact that in the past, when abortion wasn't accepted in society, the milky sap of raw papaya was used by many to terminate pregnancies." Apparently, papaya causes problems only when the raw fruit is consumed in large quantities. "Accidentally consuming a piece of raw papaya isn't dangerous. However, if overeaten, uterine contraction leading to abortion is a possibility. Similarly, pineapple is also a uterine irritant," explains Dr Marie.

The doctor says that, as many other fruits are risk-free, she often advises pregnant ladies to steer clear of papaya and pineapple. "It's not because there is anything scientifically against consuming these fruits. The advice is often given just for safety." 
What else to avoid?
According to Dr Marie, the other food items that pregnant women should avoid are those with artificial flavours and colours, sweets like cakes and chocolates, caffeinated drinks like coffee and cola, deep-sea fish with high mercury content, alcoholic drinks, recreational drugs and smoking.