Whether or not to shave your pubic hair during pregnancy is personal; we know there is no right or wrong answer. However, on the day of your surgery, you should be prepared and know that you must be shaved.
Let’s be honest – shaving with a massive belly in your way is less than comfortable. It feels like an Olympic sport, and you can’t even see what you’re doing. Aside from getting your partner to help you shave, it feels like a dangerous adventure that can cause discomfort and pain if you slip up.
I’ve been in your shoes, and it’s not fun. You also might wonder when you can start shaving your pubic hair after a c-section. We’ll cover that, too, so let’s jump into this topic.
Shaving Pubic Hair While Pregnant
Many women notice that during pregnancy, they experience a spike in hormones that cause hair growth to be overdrive. Shaving is a necessity, or you’ll end up with a forest. If you don’t like shaving, regular trimming can keep everything under control.
It’s important to note that shaving is safe for pregnant women, but waxing isn’t the same. While you can technically wax if you want, pregnancy causes more blood flow, and your skin tends to be extra sensitive.
So, how are you supposed to shave while pregnant? Here are some simple tips.
Please don’t do it in the shower; you won’t be able to see what you’re doing, and the hot water, while looking downward, can make you dizzy.
Never shave on dry skin. A fragrance-free condition is perfect for pubic hair; it even helps soften it.
Watch the mirror or sit down on the toilet and using your hands as a guide, gently shave downward in the same direction as the hair growth.
Sitting down on the toilet and leaning back gives you more control and allows you to access the lower part of your pubic region easily.
As your belly gets bigger, even this could be hard. Another option is to get into the bathtub and shave while leaning back. The warm water will soften your skin and hair.
If worse comes the worst, ask your partner to help you out!
Do They Shave You Before a C-Section?
Yes, the staff will shave your pubic hairs if they need to be done before surgery.
It’s best if you leave this to the experts. Stop shaving 24-48 hours before your surgery; it can increase the risk of an infection developing at the surgical site. The staff will have sterile tools to ensure no bacteria ends up on your skin.
If your hair needs to be shaved, it’ll be done in the pre-op room as you prepare for the surgery. As awkward as it sounds (and is slightly strange for you), it’s not as bad as you imagine.
The staff will lay a pad underneath your butt and have you lean backward on the bed. Then, using an electric trimmer, they’ll clean up the region. It’s as simple as that, taking only a few minutes. Chances are you’ll continue speaking with the other staff members as she works to finish this.
Wait to Shave After Your C-Section
You might be tempted to shave soon after your surrey, but I encourage you to wait. You don’t want to bother your incision.
Since you need to shave close to it, the last thing you want is to rip it open again, introducing bacteria. That can cause an infection.
No way! Wait until you’re healed, and start with trimming. Then, gradually begin to shave again. Thankfully, your baby belly is gone, so it’s no longer like a dangerous adventure trying to shave. You can finally see what you’re doing again.
What About Waxing?
If you want to wax your pubic hair after a c-section, wait until you’re healed and talk to your doctor. When we say healed, your scar won’t have any stitches, staples, or Steri-strips visible. You won’t have any scabs or swelling.
It can take up to 8-12 weeks for this to happen. Ask your doctor if you’re healed enough to start waxing. You don’t want to open or damage your scar.
Final Thoughts
It’s okay to feel nervous about shaving your pubic hair before and after your c-section. The idea of people shaving for you is awkward, but it’s part of the surgery. Remember that this is routine for them; please don’t feel embarrassed. After your c-section, be sure to wait until you’re healed before shaving again.
Hey, this is Linda. My biggest accomplishment in life is being a mother of four children. Their current ages range from almost ten years old down to 20 months old.
I’m passionate about writing parenting articles because I understand so well all of the problems and trials you face as a parent. From breastfeeding woes to budgeting problems and behavior problems, along with everything in between, chances are I’ve faced it over the last ten years. Read more about Linda here.
