Wondering if you can get a Brazilian wax while pregnant? You might be hoping to clean things up down there before delivery—or perhaps you just can’t reach that region with a razor anymore. Either way, it’s a common query among expecting moms-to-be. “It’s been getting harder and harder to keep things looking good down there—I think I pulled a muscle trying to reach around and make sure everything is [shaved],” says lxsebring2002, a community member on The Bump. She’s far from the only one dealing with this hairy situation.
If you’re looking to swap your shaving gel for some warm wax, you might be questioning if it’s safe to get a Brazilian wax during pregnancy. After all, pregnancy brings tons of skin changes, including increased sensitivity, hyperpigmentation and swelling (yes, even down there). So, is getting a Brazilian bikini wax while pregnant a go or a no? Read on to get answers from experts—plus, hear from moms who’ve been there, waxed that!
Can You Get a Brazilian Wax While Pregnant?
Good news, it’s safe to get a Brazilian wax for low-risk pregnancies, says Sherry Ross, MD, an ob-gyn and women’s health expert. Shay Sadrolashrafi, an esthetician in Florida and co-founder of Wakse, adds you can do it in your first, second or third trimester—even as you in on your due date.” In fact, many expectant moms actually prefer waxing as pregnancy progresses, since it becomes harder and harder to shave.
Keep in mind, though, that your skin may be especially sensitive, thanks to those pesky pregnancy hormones. “The experience could be slightly more uncomfortable than usual,” Sadrolashrafi says.
When Should You Avoid Brazilian Waxes During Pregnancy?
If you’re dealing with a high-risk pregnancy or are prone to skin irritations and infections in the area, you’ll want to hold off on getting a Brazilian wax while pregnant, Ross says. It’s also not a good idea if you have uncomfortable skin sensitivities or melasma, as “the waxing process can lead to inflammation and irritation, potentially making the condition worse,” Sadrolashrafi says.
Lastly, you’ll likely need to hold off on getting a Brazilian wax in the few weeks after giving birth. This is to ensure the area has properly healed, Sadrolashrafi explains. Like many other postpartum activities, it’s important to get the green light from your provider before resuming waxing.
Tips for Getting a Brazilian Wax While Pregnant
For the most part, the experience of getting a Brazilian wax while pregnant will be similar to what it’s like outside of pregnancy. But there are a few extra things to keep in mind. Here’s how to prepare for your appointment, as well as some skin-care tips for afterward.
- Do your research: Research the salon or facility beforehand to make sure it’s clean, reputable and following hygiene guidelines (like no-double dipping in the wax pot), and make sure you’re choosing a licensed esthetician who has experience with pregnant clients. “Once you’re ready to get waxed, ask your esthetician to adjust the treatment bed for your comfort,” advises Sadrolashrafi.
- Avoid any DIY bikini waxing. Now is not the time to try this yourself!
- Be mindful of skin sensitivity: As noted, pregnancy hormones may make your skin more sensitive and cause changes like hyperpigmentation and melasma. Waxing may be more painful than before and lead to more skin irritation. If you have concerns, reach out to your provider for their suggestions. And, of course, hold off on your wax if you have any existing sores or irritation in the area.
- Expect hair growth changes: Another side effect of those hormonal changes? Your hair may grow in different areas at different speeds than what you’re used to. “Hair growth during pregnancy often increases,” Ross says. “Hair can appear thicker and fuller, making removal more painful.” Staying consistent with your waxes without lengthy breaks between appointments can help reduce discomfort. Luckily, this faster hair growth usually goes away after birth: “After pregnancy some clients do find slower hair growth,” Sadrolashrafi says.
- Don’t shave or trim: Similarly, don’t shave or trim your hair short in between appointments, as this could make the wax more painful and more challenging. You want to make sure it’s long enough for the wax to grip, explains Sadrolashrafi.
- Soothe your skin afterward: You may have more redness or irritation, or even pinpoint bleeding after your bikini wax in pregnancy. Take steps to soothe your skin with non-scented moisturizers, like aloe vera post-treatment. Plus, keep the pubic area clean and stay hydrated after your appointment, advises Ross.
- Use gentle exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation can help with any in-grown hairs and dead skin cells. “Use a soft washcloth or mild scrub a few times a week,” Sadrolashrafi suggests. Using a warm compress can also help bring any in-grown hair to the surface.
- Pay attention to the products: Only use serums and other skin-care products that are marked as pregnancy-safe. When in doubt, check the ingredients list and ask your provider what’s safe and what’s not.
Other Hair Removal Methods to Try While Pregnant
If you’re uneasy about waxing while pregnant, there are alternatives for hair removal, such as shaving and trimming. But for other methods, like laser hair removal, hair removal creams and electrolysis, you’ll want to get your provider’s go-ahead first, Sadrolashrafi says. They’ll likely tell you to hold off until after baby is born. While these methods are generally considered safe, there isn’t concrete and decisive research around them during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to tell my waxer if I’m pregnant?
You should always let your waxer know you’re pregnant. “It helps them adjust the treatment to your skin, which can be more sensitive during pregnancy,” Sadrolashrafi says. “Plus, they can avoid any products or techniques that might not be safe for you. Being open with them ensures a more comfortable and safe experience.”
Can I lay on my back during a Brazilian wax while pregnant?
It’s usually safe to lie on your back during a Brazilian wax while pregnant during all trimesters, Ross notes, as it only takes a few minutes. “It may be more uncomfortable during the third trimester of pregnancy, so you may want to be sitting up during the last few weeks of pregnancy,” she adds. Sadrolashrafi agrees, noting that it might get uncomfortable to lay down in the later stages of pregnancy due to pressure on your veins. In this case, ask your waxer about alternative positions.
When can I get a Brazilian wax postpartum?
You can get a Brazilian wax postpartum when you’re cleared by your provider to do other activities, including exercise and sex. This typically happens around six to eight weeks postpartum, once your body’s had time to heal. If you had a C-section or experienced any complications, it could be longer. “It’s better to wait until you’re fully healed and check with your doctor first,” Sadrolashrafi says. “Listen to your body and avoid waxing if you’re still feeling sensitive or uncomfortable.”
Is it safe to wax other areas of the body while pregnant?
“Waxing other areas like legs or underarms is usually safe during pregnancy, but your skin may be more sensitive,” Sadrolashrafi notes.
Overall, getting a Brazilian wax during pregnancy may be a little more uncomfortable, but it’s safe to do for most women. That said, for any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider. “Given the hormonal changes during pregnancy there may be unexpected symptoms and sensitivities that can occur that may change your pubic hair removal preferences,” Ross says. And, remember, only go for it, if it’s what you really want. (FYI, your provider doesn’t care either way!) “Hygiene rituals prior to labor are a personal choice,” Ross says. “In my experience, it does not matter if you have a Brazilian wax or a full bush before having a vaginal delivery.” So if you decide to go au naturel during pregnancy, that’s fine too!
