Supernatural legends from around the world vary in their degree with respect to the creepiness factor. The subjects of many of these legends are docile or protective while others are on the opposite side of the spectrum and show extreme aggression and deadliness. One of those on the latter end of the spectrum is the Pontianak from Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Pontianak is known by different names, and variations of the legend can be found in other Asian countries and cultures. However, the most prominent myth of this creature is that of a vengeful woman who died during childbirth. She could also have experienced a miscarriage or her child died giving birth. For their loss, Pontianak seek vengeance upon the living, particularly pregnant women and men.

Pontianak are described as having long, dark hair, pale skin, sharp teeth, and claws while wearing a white, blood-stained dress. Their cries are said to be like that of a baby crying. The further away the creature is, the louder it cries; however, as it gets closer its cry becomes softer and harder to discern. Primarily a creature of the night, the Pontianak are lured by the smell of clothing left out to dry. They seize upon those collecting the clothing. This is why it’s uncommon for people in these countries to leave their laundry out to dry overnight. Pontianak have also been witnessed standing beside roads as cars pass by. If the driver stops, they become a victim.

The Pontianak’s means of killing its victims is gruesome. Commonplace among legends of vampires, the Pontianak typically sucks its victim’s blood. However, this creature goes a step further and eats the victim’s internal organs. When its prey is a pregnant woman, though, the creature also consumes the fetus.

Legend says that a Pontianak can be subdued, and even turned into a good wife, by driving a nail into its neck. However, if the nail is removed, the woman reverts to her deadly former self.

This legend has struck fear in the hearts of locals for many years. It’s no wonder, too. If we believed that our organs would be ripped out and eaten just for doing the laundry, we’d probably also think twice.