The pregnant body experiences sudden hormonal changes and fluctuations. This causes estrogen in the body, along with other hormonal chemicals, to rise rapidly. Estrogen is the cause of belly hair during pregnancy, which is usually thicker and darker than normal hair. As a result, some women notice hair growing on their stomach, which can make them feel nervous.
This article looks at the main causes of this phenomenon. We explain why it is normal to have belly hair during pregnancy, dispel the myths surrounding it, explain what it is all about and how you can control it by shaving.
Table of contents:
- Part 1: Is it normal to have a hairy stomach during pregnancy?
- Part 2: Why is my stomach hairy during pregnancy?
- Part 3: How to shave when pregnant?
- Part 4: Conclusion
Is it normal to have a hairy stomach during pregnancy?
Yes, it is normal to get a hairy stomach during pregnancy. Pregnant women go through various physical changes, one of which is the increase of estrogen in the body. This chemical is responsible for hair growth on the stomach. It is noticeable that the hair on the stomach grows differently and darker than the woman's normal hair.
Why is my stomach hairy during pregnancy?
Here are some reasons why some women see hair growing on their stomach.
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Higher hormone levels
Pregnant women face unstable hormonal functions. These fluctuations are responsible for the growth of chemicals like estrogen and androgen. Estrogen is responsible for rapid hair growth on the abdomen, face, back and pubic area. Androgen is responsible for hair texture and thickness, which is different from normal hair.
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Genetic predisposition
Genetics is another factor that can cause belly hair during pregnancy. Some people have certain genes in their family that can lead to rapid growth or reduction of belly hair.
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hair in the resting phase
Resting hair is the period when the hair follicles are in a state of inactivity that does not cause growth of the hair shaft. This is due to the increased levels of the hormone progesterone. This condition causes hair to grow rapidly in other places, including the abdominal region.
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Higher androgen levels
The increase in a hormone called androgen in the body causes the pores and glands to grow and produce more skin oil than necessary. This phenomenon leads to increased visibility of skin hair. This causes the hair on the stomach to appear more defined.
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Excessive blood circulation
Many pregnant women experience increased blood flow, similar to a surge in hormones. This excess blood flow to the abdominal area causes hair follicles to grow and develop, resulting in increased visibility of hair in the abdominal region.
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cravings
Pregnant women have different cravings. Some of the foods they eat can trigger a surge in certain hormones, causing hair to grow on different parts of the body. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor and develop a healthy diet. However, hair growth on the stomach due to cravings is more of a side effect than a medical condition.
debunking myths
The body develops and changes during pregnancy, this is purely scientific. However, some people believe that belly hair during pregnancy is related to the gender of the baby, which is a complete untruth. Estrogen stimulation and hormone fluctuations cause rapid hair growth on the belly, which is purely a biological phenomenon and has nothing to do with the gender of the baby.
Significance of a hairy belly during pregnancy
Pregnant women face various changes such as the growth of belly hair. This is something completely normal and a biological phenomenon explained by doctors. The extreme hormonal changes cause the hair to grow or fall out quickly. This is a temporary phenomenon that disappears a few months after giving birth. However, some women get extremely nervous when hair starts growing on their belly. Due to the emotional fluctuations and hair growth, some women experience additional trauma. Therefore, it is best to calm down and consult a doctor as early as possible to avoid complications during pregnancy.
Related article : Is IPL OK at home during pregnancy?
How to shave when pregnant?
Shaving during pregnancy is not a normal task as you face several risks. Here are the right methods for shaving during pregnancy.
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Choose pregnancy-friendly products
Avoid using products such as creams and lotions that contain harsh chemicals during pregnancy. Choose pregnancy-friendly products because harsh chemicals can cause infections and irritation. In some cases, the harsh chemicals can also harm the baby's health.
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Choose light moisturizing soap or glycerin soap
Using a moisturizing soap or shaving cream that contains glycerin can help pregnant women avoid skin irritation that can occur when shaving. It also relaxes the skin and softens the follicles so they glide more smoothly. Gently spread the soap over the area to be shaved before shaving.
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Choose a clean and sharp blade
During pregnancy, the body becomes sensitive, so avoid using old razors. Instead, choose a fresh razor with a sharp blade. This will allow the hair to be removed cleanly and without infection.
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Shave gently
Instead of shaving quickly, try to shave as slowly and gently as possible. The delicate body needs to be cared for, so glide the razor gently over the area to be shaved to achieve smooth hair removal.
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Shaving while sitting
Instead of shaving while standing, opt for a sitting position. This reduces the risk of unwanted damage to the pregnant body. The sitting position can also help make the belly hair easier to shave.
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Ask family for help
In some cases, it is more difficult for pregnant women to reach and shave areas such as the stomach, back, legs, etc. In such moments, it is imperative to ask the family for help.
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Shaving in front of the mirror
When shaving the lower abdomen and pubic area, it can be difficult to see the area. Using a mirror while shaving solves this problem. Shave in front of the body mirror and glide the razor gently over the skin.
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trimming orplucking
Shaving can help get rid of unwanted body hair during pregnancy. However, in some areas, shaving does not help. In such cases, you can use clean and well-adjusted stainless steel tweezers to pluck the hair right at the root. This can also slow down hair production during pregnancy
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post-shave moisturizer
Use gentle moisturizers after shaving to keep the skin hydrated. Using baby moisturizers can be helpful during pregnancy as they do not contain harsh chemicals, thus reducing the risk of skin irritation and health problems.
Conclusion
Pregnant women face various physical changes, and the growth of belly hair is one of them. This phenomenon has nothing to do with the myths that surround it. The occurrence of growing belly hair is purely scientific and is caused by extreme hormonal chemicals.
A hairy belly during pregnancy is normal and only lasts for a few months. Once hormones stabilize after birth, the excess hair will slowly decrease. It is normal for the body to change during pregnancy. Sometimes belly hair does not decrease after pregnancy. Getting professional help during this time can help you avoid certain dangers.