Overview
Your body undergoes many changes while pregnant. Some side effects, like glowing skin, are wanted. Others, like unwanted hair growth, are less desirable. Although unexpected hair growth is normal and generally corrects itself, it can be embarrassing and frustrating. There are a variety of ways to remove hair, but it is important to understand why excess hair growth occurs and how to use caution so you can protect your unborn baby.
Features
The Babycenter website explains that pregnant women may develop unwanted hair on the upper lip, cheeks, chin, legs and arms. You may even experience new hair growth on the belly, breasts or back. In addition, hair appears thicker and fuller when pregnant.
This condition usually starts in the first trimester and is only temporary. Hair growth should lessen and return to its usual growth cycle about six months after giving birth.
Causes
When not pregnant, the hair progresses through a regular growth cycle. The March of Dimes says that each hair grows about one-half inch every month. After about two years, it goes into the resting phase where it naturally falls out. The growth phase then restarts.
When pregnant, higher hormone levels cause the hair to stay in the resting phase. This means fewer hairs will fall out. In addition, increased cortisone levels cause new hair growth on the body and face.
Treatment
You can get rid of unwanted hair during pregnancy right at home. The American Pregnancy Association states that shaving is a cheap and convenient option. Be sure to use a moisturizer afterward to prevent razor burn and to keep the skin soft.
You may pluck away the offending hairs with a pair of sanitized tweezers. For longer lasting treatment, purchase a waxing kit or have a salon professional remove the unwanted hair with hot wax.
Doctor’s Care
If other hair removal methods prove inconvenient or hair growth is bothersome, seek a doctor’s advice. The Babycenter notes that a dermatologist or doctor may be able to perform procedures like electrolysis or laser hair removal.
These methods are more permanent than others and are considered safe for pregnant women, although electrolysis could pose some difficulties. Discuss all hair removal methods with your doctor. There may be a specific reason why one is not recommended for you while pregnant.
Considerations
The American Pregnancy Association warns that some hair removal methods, like waxing, can be painful to sensitive skin while pregnant. Avoid electrolysis that uses a galvanic current. This kind of current is electrical and may pass through the belly and into the baby and amniotic fluid.
In addition, the Babycenter website explains that electrolysis can cause the treated skin to darken. This is due to the elevated hormones that result in excess pigmentation while pregnant.
