Hair on Stomach During Pregnancy – Is It a Concern?

The fresh pregnancy glow on their face and thick lustrous hair make every pregnant woman feel more attractive. Along with this, you may notice some extra hair in places where you don’t wish to have any. Excessive hair growth or Hirsutism is a common condition among women during pregnancy. Hair grows in the stomach area or in the other unwanted areas of the body like the face or around the nipples. However, the good news is, this extra fuzz is not for keeps. Pregnant belly hair disappears about 6 months after your delivery.

What Does Belly Hair in Pregnancy Mean?

A pregnant woman having a hairy stomach is quite common and normal. It is due to the hormones that also make your nails grow. It can basically mean that your hormones are overworking to help your baby grow well in your womb.

Is a Hairy Belly During Pregnancy Normal?

A fuzzy belly creates a lot of worry among pregnant women. Most women hate it. Although hair anywhere on the body other than the head and eyebrows is very annoying, a hairy stomach during pregnancy is absolutely normal. All you need to do is deal with it till it lasts, with patience.

What Causes Hair Growth on the Stomach During Pregnancy?

Some of the reasons behind hair growth on the belly during pregnancy are:

1. Increased Hormone Levels

Throughout pregnancy, the body generates hormones like estrogen and progesterone, potentially encouraging hair development. Additionally, elevated androgen hormones, produced in greater amounts during pregnancy, foster thick hair. This effect is not limited to the scalp; it extends to areas such as the pubic region, face, and even the abdominal area!

2. Larger Number of Hair Is in the Resting Phase

During pregnancy, elevated hormone levels lead to a higher number of hairs entering the resting phase. This results in continued growth of your hair and a reduction in the amount of hair that naturally falls out.

3. Increased Blood Flow

The increased blood circulation to the abdominal area throughout pregnancy can activate the hair follicles, leading to heightened hair visibility.

4. Increased Oil Production

Certain expectant mothers undergo a rise in skin oil production, a phenomenon that can enhance the visibility of hair.

5. Genetic Predisposition

In certain cases, women possess a genetic predisposition that results in heightened hair growth during pregnancy, often attributed to their family lineage.

Safe Methods for Removing Belly Hair During Pregnancy

Looking for ways to remove pregnancy stomach hair safely? These ways might help!

1. Shaving

Ensure the use of a clean razor and shave following the direction of hair growth for best results.

2. Waxing

Another pregnancy-friendly alternative for removing hair on tummy during pregnancy is waxing, though it’s important to have it performed by a professional. It’s crucial to note that your abdominal skin becomes even more sensitive during pregnancy, potentially leading to more significant irritation following waxing.

Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Pregnancy Belly Hair

Here are some natural ways you can use to remove the hair from your belly when pregnant.

1. Turmeric Paste

Create a paste using turmeric and water, then gently apply it to the affected area. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties might help reduce hair growth over time.

2. Papaya and Turmeric Mask

Blend papaya and a pinch of turmeric into a smooth mixture. Apply it to your belly, as papaya contains enzymes that could hinder hair growth.

3. Sugar-Lemon Scrub

Mix sugar with lemon juice to form a scrub. Gently massage it onto your belly, as lemon’s natural bleaching properties might help lighten hair and make it less noticeable.

4. Oatmeal and Banana Exfoliant

Combine ground oatmeal and ripe banana, then gently exfoliate the area. This can help soften skin and potentially reduce hair visibility.

5. Spearmint Tea

Drinking spearmint tea might regulate androgen levels, which could, in turn, influence hair growth.

6. Lavender and Tea Tree Oil Blend

Dilute a few drops of lavender and tea tree essential oils with a carrier oil, then apply it sparingly to your belly. These oils are believed to possess anti-androgenic effects.

Why Do Some Pregnant Women Have Belly Hair While Some Don’t?

Although all women during pregnancy produce both male and female hormones, not all experience excessive hair growth, especially in unwanted areas. Some women, on the other hand, experience hyperpigmentation, acne, and swelling.

Will the Hair Go Away After Child Birth?

Pregnancy brings with it a lot of side effects. One such effect is Hirsutism or excessive hair growth during pregnancy due to the overworking of the hormones. However, there are no reasons to worry. Belly hair which grows during pregnancy disappears on its own when the hormones return to normal after the delivery. If in case you find your pregnancy-induced belly hair not disappearing even after delivery, you can consult a dermatologist for some treatment options available.

Is It Possible to Prevent the Growth of Pregnancy Belly Hair?

No, there is no way to prevent the growth of belly hair during pregnancy. But the following tips may help you cope with the situation:

• Wear clothes that make you feel confident about yourself, as well as comfortable and beautiful, to help you boost your self-esteem.
• Take out moments for self-care and engage in activities that bring you joy.
• Reaffirm the wonder and happiness that comes with pregnancy, and recognize that the hair on your belly is merely a minor aspect of this incredible journey.

Warning Signs to Watch Out for!

Hair on the belly is not abnormal or out of this world. It is a natural condition that occurs during pregnancy in some women due to the hormonal changes. However, growing hair on the belly during pregnancy could be scary at times.

• Excess belly fuzz during pregnancy could indicate Hyperandrogenism, a rare condition. It occurs when the male sex hormone androgens are produced in excess. It also happens when the pregnant woman suffers from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or in case she has been on medication to treat epilepsy.
• This condition can also trigger high blood pressure, acne, decreased or absent menstrual periods, manly voice, excessive weight gain, baldness and increase muscle mass.
• Medically induced hyperandrogenism, though rare, can be quite worrisome. If the mother has an excess of androgens in her blood, it can affect her unborn baby as well. If a woman (suffering from this condition) gives birth to a baby girl, the baby may run the risk of having male-like characteristics (virilisation).
• Growth in the abdomen or pelvis.
• Belly hair usually disappears in a period of 6 months to 9 months after delivery. However, if it persists or the hair seems to spread and grow thicker, you should consult a doctor.

FAQ

1. What Are Some Common Myths About Belly Hair During Pregnancy?

One of the most common myths about pregnancy belly hair is:

• It can harm the baby – but it’s a natural occurrence and will not harm the baby in any way.

Treatment for unwanted belly hair during pregnancy is fairly limited. Although it may feel gross, avoid any type of depilatory creams until you have delivered. Stick to the other safe options like tweezing, waxing or shaving. The increased blood flow may make your skin sensitive during pregnancy, so try and avoid more aggressive methods of hair removal like chemicals, bleaches, and laser. They may affect your foetus too. Therefore, the best way is to just go with the flow of pregnancy even if it seems unpleasant.

References/Resources:

1. Skin Conditions During Pregnancy; acog.org; https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy

2. Skin and hair changes during pregnancy; medlineplus.gov; https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000611.htm

3. 10 Things That Might Surprise You About Being Pregnant; kidshealth.org; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/pregnancy.html

4. Monika Grymowicz, Ewa Rudnicka, Agnieszka Podfigurna, et.al; Hormonal Effects on Hair Follicles; NCBI; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7432488/; August 2020

5. Stomach Hair During Pregnancy: Causes and Dealing Ways; newhealthadvisor.org; https://www.newhealthadvisor.org/hairy-stomach-in-pregnancy.html

Also Read: 

Hair Loss in Pregnancy
Using Hair Removal Cream during Pregnancy
How to Remove Hair From Private Parts when Pregnant