Is it safe to shave pubic hair during pregnancy?

Shaving pubic hair is one approach to keep intimate hygiene, however is it protected throughout being pregnant? Whereas pubic or perineal shaving is a standard apply when would-be mothers are prepped for supply, it could not all the time be suggested {that a} lady does it on her personal. After just a few weeks of being pregnant, girls are usually not in a position to see beneath their stomach bump and should find yourself going through negative effects if issues go fallacious. Does that imply girls skip shaving pubic hair throughout being pregnant?

What’s pubic hair?

Pubic hair is the hair that grows within the genital space, overlaying the pubic area. It’s a secondary sexual attribute that seems throughout puberty and varies in thickness, color and texture amongst people, says Dr Mridula Devi, an skilled in maternal-fetal drugs, obstetrics and gynaecology.

Can girls shave pubic hair throughout being pregnant?

Shaving pubic hair could make it simpler to keep up private hygiene throughout being pregnant, however there could also be some negative effects.

1. Pores and skin irritation

Shaving pubic hair could cause pores and skin irritation, redness or itching. They could be extra pronounced throughout being pregnant as a result of elevated sensitivity, says the skilled.

2. Ingrown hair

Shaving will increase the chance of ingrown hair, which could be uncomfortable. It might additionally result in an infection if not correctly handled.

3. Danger of cuts

Being pregnant can alter a lady’s middle of gravity. This makes it tougher to navigate whereas shaving and rising the chance of unintended cuts.

4. An infection danger

Any open cuts or nicks from shaving pubic hair can doubtlessly pose the next danger of an infection throughout being pregnant.

Choosing clipping or trimming of pubic hair, relatively than shaving, is usually thought-about a more sensible choice, says Dr Devi. Trimming can shorten your pubic hair with out chopping too near your pores and skin. Microscopic abrasions related to shaving may enhance the chance of infections. So, selecting a gentler method like clipping helps to keep up hygiene with out the potential drawbacks related to shaving, selling a extra snug expertise.

What are the dos and don’ts of shaving pubic hair throughout being pregnant?

When you nonetheless want to eliminate pubic hair throughout being pregnant, be sure to preserve just a few issues in thoughts.

Dos:

• Use a gentle shaving cream or gel to assist to cut back pores and skin irritation.
• Use a clear and sharp razor, as a uninteresting one can enhance the chance of nicks and irritation.
• Shave in a well-lit space to minimise the chance of accidents.
• Throughout being pregnant, you possibly can get dizzy and fall whereas making an attempt to look out down, so lean again towards a chair or seated bathroom whereas shaving.
• Use a handheld mirror to get a greater view of your vulva. It might assist to observe your self whereas shaving pubic hair.
• Rinse with cool water to cut back redness or soothe your pores and skin.
• Gently pat your personal space dry with a smooth towel, as doing it roughly could cause irritation.

Don’ts:

• Skip merchandise with sturdy fragrances or harsh chemical substances that will irritate the pores and skin.
• Keep away from sizzling baths instantly after shaving, as sizzling water can exacerbate pores and skin irritation. So, it’s greatest to attend a bit earlier than taking a sizzling bathtub.
• Shave within the route of your hair development to cut back the chance of ingrown hairs.

Shaving pubic hair throughout being pregnant is a private alternative. And should you want to do it, be sure to observe the principles.