Common Concerns in Pregnancy
Miscellaneous
Hair dye
The concentration of chemicals in hair dye is generally low and therefore it is safe to dye your hair in pregnancy. It is important to mention to your hairstylist that you are pregnant as some hair dyes can cause increased irriation to the scalp in pregnancy and are best avoided.
Manicures and nail polish
It is safe to paint your nails but some chemicals found in nail polish (such as formaldehyde) may be harmful in large doses. It may be best to use nail polish that is free of these substances.
It is safe to get a manicure in pregnancy. The smell from some nail treatments may exacerbate symptoms of nausea/vomiting and it is best to have your treatments in a well ventilated area.
Deodorants
It is safe to use deodorant in pregnancy. Skin is more prone to irritation in pregnancy, hence a hypoallergenic deodorant may be tolerated better in pregnancy.
Fake tan
Topically applied fake tan creams and lotions are safe in pregnancy. Spray tans carry the risk of inhaling the active ingredient of dihydroxyacetone, the effect of which on the developing fetus is unknown. It is best to avoid this in pregnancy.
Hair removal
The effects of laser hair removal in pregnancy are unknown and hence it is not recommended to have laser hair removal. Changes to skin and hair in the pregnancy and postpartum period may also reduce the effectiveness of treatment in pregnancy.
Waxing, shaving and threading are safe hair removal methods in pregnancy.
Botox and fillers
It is best to avoid botox and fillers during pregnancy.
Travel in pregnancy
It is quite safe to fly domestically up until 36 weeks gestation and internationally until 28 weeks, although individual airlines may have specific restrictions. It is important to consult with your specialist prior to travel.
Your specialist may recommend avoiding travel to certain areas or taking special precautions, especially those endemic in mosquito-borne diseases such as Malaria, Dengue and Zika virus. Travel to certain areas will require specific vaccinations or preventative medications. It is best to discuss your travel plans early in pregnancy with your specialist.
International travel beyond 22 weeks’ gestation needs to be considered very carefully, as travel insurance will not cover the costs of providing care to your baby should a premature birth ensue. These costs can be very significant, depending on the country.
Sex
It is safe to have sex in pregnancy. Your specialist may advise you to avoid sex in certain circumstances, such as if there is bleeding, a short cervix or a low-lying placenta.
Dental care in pregnancy
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene during pregnancy and to continue routine dental checks in pregnancy. Local anaesthetic for dental treatment is safe during pregnancy.
