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Is Laser Hair Removal Safe During Pregnancy?

Laser hair removal can assist you in self-esteem issues and emotional turmoil. Your body goes through several changes when you are pregnant. These include physical as well as emotional differences. However, is laser hair removal the best choice for your pregnancy and the changes that you are experiencing?

  1. Significance

    • Pregnancy can cause major changes in your body. Your hormones may produce unwanted hair or a raise in hair growth. You may experience hair where you have never had it before. This includes your face, stomach or chest. You could also have more hair in your pubic area, legs or underarms. This can make you feel less attractive and lower your self-esteem. You may also find that removing the hair with a razor is more challenging that it has been in the past. Laser hair removal may seem like a better alternative to shaving.

    Expert Insight

    • According to the American Pregnancy Association, laser hair removal studies have not proven to be safe or harmful when you are pregnant. Apparently, small studies have been done on the effectiveness and dangers involved in laser hair removal. However, the results are inconclusive. Larger studies in this area have not yet become a priority. Thus, the experts are unsure if laser hair removal is safe during pregnancy.

    Considerations

    • Laser hair removal eliminates the hair by using light and heat to stop the growth. You will need several treatments to remove the hair completely where it will not grow back. This is not permanent, however, as every person is different and each body's reaction may be different. When you are pregnant, the hair growth is temporary. More than likely it will disappear once you deliver your baby.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Laser hair removal during pregnancy has not been proven or disproved safe. The method in removing your hair seems harmless in theory. You may have discomfort from sitting in one position for an extended period. However, most laser technicians will not perform the procedure without approval from your ob/gyn.

    Warning

    • Health care providers are wary of giving the green light on laser hair removal during pregnancy. Check with your doctor before proceeding. He may need to give approval before you obtain this type of treatment. Living with excess hair can be trying, especially when you are having a difficult time shaving. However, making the correct choice for yourself involves discussions with your ob/gyn as well as your emotional state.

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