Superstition plays a role in some pockets of Chinese population. It was believed that expectant mothers should avoid using sharp objects, knives or scissors on their bed. Failing to heed this advice can result in cleft lip babies. Women are also not to tape or post any things on the wall of their bed. This could cause unwanted birthmarks on babies' faces.
Sexual intercourse is acceptable during the course of pregnancy.
However, most couple would abstain during the first trimester for fear of miscarriages. Some Chinese also believe that in order to prevent babies from developing rashes, women were to avoid eating shell seafood such as crabs, shrimps or clams. Some women also supplement herbal drink during the first trimester to safeguard the pregnancy and a different type of herb toward the end of third trimester as a means to get rid of the toxins in the womb, and expectantly, to ensure themselves a healthy baby. As Chinese women living in North America become more acculturated with Western culture, conventional prenatal care with intake of prenatal vitamins are increasingly accepted as a norm. Women will seek OB care, undergo blood draw and comply with routine OB visits.