Pregnancy brings about many changes in a woman’s body. As the belly grows bigger and bigger, some daily grooming habits like shaving may become difficult. This leads many pregnant women to ask: is it safe to shave while pregnant? Here’s what you need to know.
Is it safe to shave during pregnancy?
The short answer is yes, you can safely shave your legs and underarms while pregnant. Shaving itself poses minimal risks during pregnancy when done carefully. However, there are some precautions pregnant women should take when shaving:
- Use a clean, sharp razor to avoid nicks and cuts, which could become infected
- Shave slowly and gently, do not rush
- Use a shaving cream or gel for lubrication
- Shave in the direction of hair growth, not against it
- Rinse the blade often to avoid irritation
- Moisturize after shaving to prevent itchiness
- Avoid shaving areas you cannot see, like your legs, or have someone assist you
As long as you take precautions, there is minimal risk to shaving during pregnancy. The main thing is avoiding cuts and irritation.
Why do some doctors recommend not shaving?
Some doctors may advise pregnant women to avoid shaving, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. There are a few reasons for this recommendation:
- Difficulty seeing or reaching legs to shave safely as the belly grows
- Increased risk of cutting or nicking skin on legs due to impaired visibility
- Hormonal changes make skin and veins more susceptible to irritation
- Risk of infection is higher if cuts or scratches occur
However, many of these risks can be minimized with proper precautions. Using a mirror, reusable razor, shaving gel, and gentle technique can allow most women to safely shave during pregnancy.
When is shaving more risky during pregnancy?
While shaving is generally safe during pregnancy, there are certain situations where the risk may be greater including:
- Third trimester – Impaired visibility and mobility make shaving more difficult and increase risk of cuts.
- History of premature labor – Cuts could potentially introduce bacteria and trigger early contractions.
- Placenta previa – A low placenta increases chance of bleeding if cut.
- PUPPP rash – Shaving may worsen the intense itching of this pregnancy rash.
- Edema – Swollen legs are prone to irritation, cuts and infection if shaved.
Women with high-risk pregnancies or complications like these should use caution when shaving. Checking with your doctor about safety precautions is recommended.
What areas are safe to shave during pregnancy?
These areas of the body are generally safe to shave with care during pregnancy:
- Legs – Shave below the knee where visibility is better, or have someone assist.
- Underarms – Lift your arm up for better visibility.
- Bikini line – Use a mirror and go slowly to avoid cuts.
Avoid shaving your legs above the knees without assistance. The abdomen may become more difficult to shave as the belly grows larger later in pregnancy as well.
What precautions should pregnant women take when shaving?
Pregnant women can continue shaving safely by following these precautions:
- Use a new, sterile disposable razor each time to reduce infection risk
- Apply a thick shaving cream, oil or gel for lubrication
- Shave in small, gentle strokes in the direction of hair growth
- Rinse the blade frequently to avoid irritation
- Do not stretch the skin taut, shave gently
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry, do not rub
- Apply a soothing moisturizer post-shave
- Avoid shaving on spots that are itchy, irritated or cut already
Taking it slow and using caution can help make shaving during pregnancy safe. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns.
What are the best products and methods for shaving during pregnancy?
To help make shaving easy and safe during pregnancy, here are some recommended products and techniques:
Razors
- Disposable – New with each use to limit infection
- Men’s – Often have more surrounding blades for a close shave
- Electric – Lower risk of cuts, good for bikini area
- Body groomer – Trim longer hairs before shaving
Shaving Creams
- Thick foam – Provides better lubrication
- Natural oil – Moisturizes while shaving delicately
- Shaving gel – Creates slick surface and lifts hairs
- Soap – Use mild bar soap if no shave products available
Technique
- Shave in direction of hair growth
- Rinse blade often
- Use short, gentle strokes
- Pull skin taut, but not too tight
- Apply aloe vera or moisturizing cream after
Using the right tools and techniques can make a big difference in preventing irritation.
What are some alternatives to shaving during pregnancy?
If shaving becomes too difficult or irritating during pregnancy, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Hair removal creams – Use chemical depilatories to dissolve hair.
- Waxing – Have waxing done professionally at a reputable salon.
- Laser hair removal – Provides long-lasting reduction, if started pre-pregnancy.
- Trimming – Use an electric trimmer to neatly trim hair short.
- Avoiding – Embrace the natural hair growth during this time.
Discuss the pros and cons of these alternatives with your doctor to choose the safest option. Temporary methods like creams or waxing may be preferable to minimize any risks.
When should you call the doctor about shaving issues during pregnancy?
Contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience:
- Extensive bleeding from cuts or scratches sustained while shaving
- Signs of infection like redness, swelling, oozing pus or red streaks around a shaving cut
- Itching, irritation or a rash after shaving that persists more than 2-3 days
- Contractions, cramping or any signs of preterm labor after shaving
While rare, improperly shaving can introduce bacteria and cause complications. Seek medical care immediately if any concerning symptoms arise.
Tips for easier and safer shaving during pregnancy
To make shaving an easier process during pregnancy, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a wide-angle mirror to see legs better
- Sit on the edge of the tub or elevated surface to reach legs more easily
- Ask partner for help shaving harder to see or reach areas
- Exfoliate first to prevent in-grown hairs
- Trim longer hairs with clippers before using a razor
- Lift belly up with one hand while shaving with the other
- Apply cold compress after to soothe any irritation
With some minor adjustments, most women can continue their shaving routine safely during pregnancy. Focus on moisture, precision and gentle technique when shaving sensitive skin.
What skin changes occur during pregnancy that impact shaving?
Pregnancy hormones create changes in the skin that can affect the shaving process including:
- Increased blood flow makes skin more prone to irritation.
- Higher estrogen levels contributes to faster hair growth.
- Sudoriferous glands swell, increasing sweat and oil production.
- Skin pigmentation darkens in some areas like underarms and groin.
- Raised bumps or itchy patches may develop from skin stretching.
Being aware of these shifts helps you take precautions like using gentle products and shaving more frequently. Moisturize daily and avoid harsh scrubbing when skin is sensitive.
What safety guidelines should pregnant women follow when shaving?
To maximize safety when shaving during pregnancy, follow these guidelines:
- Use a clean, new razor each time.
- Apply shaving cream or gel for lubrication.
- Shave in direction of hair growth only.
- Rinse blade often during shaving.
- Avoid stretching or pulling skin taut.
- Do not shave over moles or irritated skin.
- Gently pat dry after and apply moisturizer.
- Avoid shaving areas you cannot see well.
- Never share razors to avoid infections.
Putting safety first when shaving can help reduce risks like cuts and skin irritation during pregnancy.
How can your partner help you shave safely during pregnancy?
Your partner can provide invaluable assistance with shaving hard to reach spots during pregnancy. Here are some ways a partner can help:
- Provide an extra set of eyes to see shaving areas clearly
- Gently hold and smooth skin to create taut surface for shaving
- Apply shave gel or cream to difficult areas like back of legs
- Gently shave difficult spots you cannot see or reach yourself
- Check for any missed patches and touch up if needed
- Rinse off any residual shaving cream so skin is clean
- Apply moisturizing lotion to soothe skin after shaving
Having assistance from someone you trust can make shaving safer. Agree on signals so they know if you need them to stop or adjust to maximize your comfort.
Conclusion
While shaving during pregnancy introduces some risks, most women can continue removing hair safely with proper precautions. Using new razors, shaving slowly in the direction of hair growth, and moisturizing after can keep the skin healthy and avoid cuts. Pay close attention to areas you cannot see well or reach easily. Getting assistance from your partner and using alternative hair removal methods can also minimize hazards. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about shaving during pregnancy for personalized guidance. With some adjustments to tools and techniques, you can keep up your shaving routine through each trimester.