Is using an epilator during pregnancy safe? As an expectant mother, you may have this question and concern about how to properly care for yourself and opt for a hair removal method while keeping your baby safe. Let me give you a quick answer. “No electric epilator is not safe in pregnancy.
In this article, we will discuss the what are risks of using an epilator and the compelling reason and rationale behind why it is not safe to use epilator during pregnancy, I will provide you with safer hair removal alternative that you can opt for without stress during pregnancy.
To make your task easy and decision-making effortless, I will furnish you with all the needed information and research so that you can make an informed decision now. So read on.
Table of contents
4 reasons why pregnant women even think of Epilating during pregnancy
It is convenient to epilating during pregnancy
Epilator offers convenience with a do-it-yourself approach without anyone’s assistance. This eradicates the need for scheduling appointments with a parlor for hair removal. With limited mobility during pregnancy, this portable handheld device provides flexibility to remove hair in the comfort of one’s own home.
Experienced Epilator User
Expectant mothers are more sensitive to pain. A newbie will be hesitant to try epilating as the first viable option during pregnancy, as it is a very delicate time. But a regular user knows all the pros of epilators. They are used to epilating all the time, so they have a high tolerance even during pregnancy. Hence, epilating will be their first choice. They just don’t care about the pain. Opting for waxing or shaving will be more overwhelming for them.
Longer hair-free period
Pregnancy is a time when every day is different. Women go through many mood swings, hormonal changes, cravings, and whatnot. The last thing they want to think about is hair removal repeatedly. Visiting a parlour or shaving at home every 15 days is tiring. Epilators not only give the freedom to be hairless for a longer period but also pick up the smallest of hair, so smooth skin all through pregnancy.
They want to avoid cuts and chemicals
Last thing a pregnant woman will want is mishaps during hair removal process. There is a high risk of cuts and nicks while shaving, so they like to opt for something which is more safe.
Similarly, they avoid Hair removal creams because of the chemicals they contain. I know a few women who hate the pungent smell of depilatory creams, and so they avoid them during pregnancy.
5 reasons for not using Epilator during Pregnancy
Epilators are a very tempting hair removal option during pregnancy, but they come with potential risks that no expectant mother would want to take during pregnancy. Here are some reasons to convince you not to use them while you are pregnant.
Instruction Manual Says it!
Yes, the instruction manual for all branded epilators clearly mentions that using epilators is not recommended during pregnancy. It is crucial to adhere to this guidance because the manufacturers know the best. They tested the product with different audiences before launching and selling it on the market. They must have given this guidance based of certain facts and figures. Hence, when the instruction manual emphasizes not to use an epilator during pregnancy, it will be sensible to err on the side of caution, prioritizing the health and well-being of both the expectant mother and the unborn child.
Research
Scientific research papers clearly mention that general epilation is not recommended due to a lack of safety data. The research particularly states permanent epilation techniques like laser treatment or electrolysis, but an epilator is not mentioned here. However, since epilators are connected to electricity and not enough data is there to claim that it is safe to use when pregnant, you shouldn’t take the risk. The research also mentions the use of temporary depilatory methods during pregnancy.
Vibrations
Epilators are known to be noisy and excessively vibrating. Even experienced non-pregnant users get irritated by the noise. Women are over-sensitive when pregnant, and as a precautionary measure, they should avoid such loud noise and intense vibration. While the pregnancy is crucial 1st trimester is a very delicate time. Vibrations and intense buzzing will be unsettling to mothers and uncomfortable to the developing foetus. Therefore, pregnant women should steer clear of using epilators until after they have given birth to protect both themselves and their unborn child.
Thick hair
During pregnancy, hormones surge, such as estrogen and androgen. These hormones play a crucial role in the hair thickening and growth cycle. Skin is very sensitive during pregnancy; when the epilator plucks the hair, the pain is intense. Skin tends to be more prone to irritation and other skin issues.
Infection prone
Like any other hair removal method, Epilators have earned a bad name for ingrown hairs. As pregnancy progresses, reaching some areas of your body might become more challenging. So, if the tweezers don’t pluck the hair properly, they may pinch the skin or cause ingrown hair, which may lead to infection.
Safer hair removal alternative during pregnancy
Hair removal cream
Many expectant mothers avoid hair removal creams because of the chemicals present in them. They doubt and fear about potential risks and effects of hair removal cream on their developing baby. But it is one of the safest methods to use while pregnant. According to a scientific journal, the cream applied to the skin is not absorbed in the bloodstream.
It is absolutely safe to apply depilatory creams during pregnancy. However, it is important to remember that you adhere to the time limit mentioned so that it does not irritate your skin. A patch test on a small area 24 hours before the application is also important. If you want to know more about hair removal cream for pregnancy, you can click here
Shaving
Many pregnant women continue their regular shaving routine without any issues. In fact, before delivery, many doctors will get you shaved down there, so you can get rest assured from a safety point of view. But if you are shaving all by yourself, it gets a bit tricky.
You should be mindful of your changing body shape and take extra care while manoeuvring around your belly. It’s also important to make sure you use a clean and good-quality razor. Apply shaving gel or cream to avoid discomfort or irritation on the skin.
Waxing
Waxing is considered safe during pregnancy if you avoid the stomach and pubic areas. No scientific journal says it can harm the baby, but many women avoid it during the first trimester. Don’t do it yourself, as you would like to avoid infection from hair pulling. Going to experts and high-quality salons will ensure safety and hygiene protocols are met and that there are fewer chances of infections or ingrown hair.
Conclusion: Epilator during Pregnancy
In conclusion, I hope i have managed to convince you that epilator should not be used during pregnancy be it on stomach or bikini area. With the potential risks and lack of research on the effects of epilators during pregnancy, it is best to avoid using them until after giving birth. There are so many alternatives to epilator during pregnancy that you can opt for instead of taking risks. If you still decide to go ahead with the decision of using an epilator during pregnancy, consult your doctor first. Also, consider the pointers you can use to make epilating less painful.
Whatever hair removal process you choose, remember that your health and your baby’s health are the top priorities, so tread carefully and choose safe options during this special time.
FAQ : Epilator during Pregnancy
An epilator on your stomach during pregnancy is not recommended by manufacturers. Moreover, it constantly vibrates and makes strange sounds, which can upset or may discomfort the developing fetus.
Epilators used to remove pubic hair in pregnancy are not recommended by scientific journals or epilator manufacturers. As the body changes during pregnancy, reaching the pubic or bikini line becomes challenging. Thus, Healthcare professionals recommend avoiding epilation in the perianal and bikini areas during all trimesters of pregnancy. This is due to the potential increased risk of infection or complications during delivery. It is crucial to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor and follow their recommendations.