As your belly gets bigger during pregnancy, hair removal becomes a challenge. Due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, hair may grow at unwanted places such as such around the belly and nipples.There are various hair removal method available.
 
hair removal

 

Hair removal during  pregnancy : Electrolysis

 
There are no studies to confirm the safety of electrolysis during pregnancy. Many health care official therefore do not recommend having electrolysis during pregnancy because of lack of data to support  its safety. If you choose electrolysis, the breast should be avoided in the last trimester especially if you plan to breastfeed. You should also avoid your abdomen in the last weeks because it is very sensitive at this time and may make you uncomfortable.

 

There are two types of current.

Thermolysis : This may also be referred to as diathermy, radio wave, short wave, or high frequency. It does not flow through the body and is not known to cause any harm to the mother or fetus.

 

Galvanic eletrolysis : This sends electric current through the client and back to the device. This is NOT recommended during pregnancy due to the amniotic fluid surrounding baby.

 

Hair removal and pregnancy : Waxing

 
The skin may react different to waxing during pregnancy.  Your skin may be more sensitive. To decease burning  sensation and stinging, it is better to use a soothing antiseptic lotion before and after waxing. The lotion may also prevent infection, reduce redness and irritation.  It is important to ask your health care provider before trying waxing during pregnancy.

 

Hair removal and pregnancy : Laser

 
This type targets the dark pigments in the hair and causes thermal and mechanical damage to follicles. There are no studies to show the safety of laser hair removal during pregnancy. Many health care officials do not recommend this during pregnancy due to lack of information on it’s effect on the fetus.

 

Hair removal and pregnancy : Creams and depilatories

 
The active ingredient barium sulfide powder and calcium thioglycolate in depilatories is the main problem with depilatories. There are no studies to show that these are safe or unsafe during pregnancy.

 

As you would do with any cosmetic, you need to try a patch of skin to see how you react. The chemical may leave a  distinct odor once exposed to oxygen. This may be uncomfortable  for you or cause an allergic reaction in rare cases. It will be better to ensure that the area is well ventilated. You also need to ensure proper timing so that chemical burning does not result.

 

Hair removal while pregnant  : Shaving

 
Shaving during pregnancy is not the easiest thing to do. You can make it fun by letting your partner help out.  Using a good moisturizer daily will ensure that your skin is soft and subtle when you shave. Moisturizers that contain  vitamin E has helped some women shave less frequemtly.

 

Content Sources
Laser hair removal and pregnancy. American Pregnancy Association. http://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/hair-removal-and-pregnancy/. Accessed July 5, 2015
 
Hair removal cream during pregnancy. Livestrong. http://www.livestrong.com/article/190168-hair-removal-creams-during-pregnancy/. Accessed July 5 , 2015
 

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