It is natural to feel concerned about doing things in pregnancy that you might have been doing carelessly before you were pregnant. So many foods, products, and activities are not safe during pregnancy, and that is why it is a good idea to talk to your doctor when you are not sure of what you should or should not do in pregnancy. Is it safe to get a pedicure when pregnant? It is a common question many women ask when they become pregnant for the very first time. Let's find out the answer now!

Can You Get a Pedicure When Pregnant?

It is natural to question the safety of your favorite makeup and cosmetics after becoming pregnant, but most experts are of the view that getting a pedicure is usually safe for pregnant women. In fact, they encourage women to go for a pedicure if it helps make them feel beautiful during pregnancy. The only thing you need to ensure is that the tools used are sterilized. It is an even better idea to bring your own pedicure tools to ensure that you do not end up becoming infected while getting a pedicure.

It is also important to ensure that you have selected the best salon. There should be enough space with proper ventilation to reduce fumes and odors associated with products like nail polish, acrylic nails, etc. Keep in mind that fumes from perms, pedicure chemicals, and styling processes can cause nausea and headaches.

If you can take these precautionary measures, you can certainly go ahead and enjoy your time at a salon. In fact, getting a pedicure is a good way to keep yourself clean, which may become difficult with your bulging belly. Here, you can consider buying a foot spa because it will go a long way in providing you with some relief from achy, swollen feet.

Pregnancy Pampering: What Is Safe, What Is Not?

Can you get a pedicure when pregnant? You already know the answer, but you may have similar concerns regarding other beauty procedures. Here is what you should know about pregnancy pampering.

1. It Is Safe to Use Hair Dye

There is no need to let others know that those sun-kissed highlights are not what you were born with because you can continue to use your hair dye as often as you did it before becoming pregnant. It is true that hair dye contains several chemicals but no study has identified any direct link between birth defects and hair dye. However, if you are not sure, you just need to cut the frequency of getting your hair dyed. Doing it once in a while is not going to pose a serious threat to the health of your baby. Moreover, you may want to take a break until second or third semester to be on the safe side.

2. It Is Safe to Try Waxing

If you think you need waxing during pregnancy, you can certainly go for it. There is no real safety issue associated with waxing, but you need to keep in mind that it is better to avoid it if you are not used to it. What it means is that if you have been getting waxed regularly before being pregnant, chances are that you are not going to feel much pain during the procedure. The idea is to avoid doing anything that causes intense pain, especially late in pregnancy because it can cause contractions. Therefore, it is usually safe to try waxing in your first and second trimester, but be sure to know your pain tolerance before doing it in your third trimester.

3. It Is Safe to Get a Massage

Massage therapy is a great way to promote a feeling of well-being during pregnancy. Not only does it help improve circulation, it helps reduce stress and ease your aching joints as well. Just keep in mind that you should only get massage from a certified and knowledgeable massage therapist. Also, ensure that the spa you select has special equipment to keep you comfortable during the massage session. For instance, some spas now have special cutout tables that allow you to lie on your belly. Similarly, you may want to ask your therapist to avoid using scented oils if they make you feel nauseated. If you know how to select a credible therapist, you can schedule massage in any semester.

4. It Is Better to Skip Saunas

Experts are of the view that you will be better off avoiding steam rooms, hot tubs, and saunas when pregnant. The reason is that increased core temperature can lead to birth defects, especially when during the first trimester. Keep in mind that hot tubs are usually above 100 degrees, which can lead to certain complications during pregnancy. It is better to opt for warm baths because the temperature is not very high and even when you are soaking in a bathtub, your knees, arms, and shoulders still stay out of the water.

5. It Is Better to Skip Teeth Whitening

It is better to take a pregnant pause if you are currently thinking of going for a teeth whitening procedure. The problem is that not many studies are there to confirm if it is safe to undergo a teeth-whitening procedure during pregnancy. Therefore, it is better to be on the safe side and avoid it when you are pregnant. Also, keep in mind that your gums are going to become more sensitive during pregnancy, so they may bleed easily. Therefore, it is another reason to skip teeth whitening when pregnant.

6. It Is Better to Avoid Tanning Beds

Experts believe that you should stay away from tanning beds during pregnancy. Studies show that tanning booths can increase your risk of skin cancer, so it is better to stay away from them. Exposing yourself to UV rays can cause skin discoloration. Moreover, the temperature can get high in those tanning beds, which can also increase the risk of birth defects. Therefore, it is better to take a long break from this habit to stay safe during pregnancy.