Is shaving necessary before giving birth? Preparing for the maternity hospital: shaving, enema, manicure... Should I shave before giving birth?

There is no clear approach to shaving before childbirth in modern medicine.

Is it necessary to shave before giving birth? Modern vision of the problem

In Soviet times, every woman giving birth was required to shave her pubic hair. This was a requirement of every maternity hospital, so the question of whether to shave or not to shave before giving birth did not arise.

These days, shaving pubic hair before childbirth is no longer a common requirement. Basically, the decision on this matter is made by the woman in labor herself.

In other words, if you show up for childbirth shaved, no one will tell you anything, just like in the case of having pubic hair.

But, nevertheless, in some maternity hospitals or at the request of individual doctors delivering babies, there may remain a rule that requires prenatal shaving.

Therefore, in order to decide whether to shave or not, you better first ask the maternity hospital if they have requirements for this process.

Why shave before giving birth?

Arguments in favor shaving means sterility and the possible need for suturing.

The fact is that pubic hair is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria. This does not bode well for the baby, whose body may be affected by these bacteria during childbirth.

Yes, before your baby is born, the pubic and perineal area will be treated with an antiseptic, but pubic hair can prevent complete disinfection.

In addition, during childbirth, ruptures often occur or there is a need to make an incision. Agree that it will be easier for the doctor to apply high-quality stitches if the pubic hair of the woman in labor does not interfere with him.

In addition, during the postpartum period, cuts and tears will heal, and the hair will again provide a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria, which can cause suppuration or inflammation of the sutures.

In addition, many take into account the aesthetic side - many will find it more pleasant to give birth to a shaved woman.

Arguments against shaving is that after the hair removal process the skin is injured, small cracks appear on it, through which an infection can be introduced into the body.

As a result, the decision about whether to shave before giving birth or not is up to you. If you still have doubts, it is best to consult about this delicate issue with the doctor who will deliver you.

After 9 months of waiting, the most long-awaited and exciting moment comes for women - the upcoming birth. Gynecologists warn expectant mothers that they also need to carefully prepare for this process. A woman not only needs to take various medications and clothes for herself and her child to the maternity hospital, but also removes hair from the intimate area.

If this is not done at home, they will spend it in the maternity hospital. Most young ladies experience embarrassment and awkwardness, so they prefer to carry out the procedure themselves. Many girls doubt whether they need to shave before giving birth, because they do not understand why the procedure is being carried out.

Doctors' opinions on the need for prenatal shaving

Just a few years ago, the issue of shaving the intimate area before childbirth was not even discussed.

If the expectant mother came to the maternity hospital for some reason, depilation was carried out by a nurse in any case.

Even if a woman in labor did not want to shave, no one was interested in her opinion. A razor, just like a scalpel, was a mandatory attribute on the medical table in the delivery room.

Today, shaving before childbirth is also advisable, but if a woman does not want to remove hair, no one will force it. No doctor will insist on the need.

If a woman wants to make the birth process as easy as possible, the best solution would be to listen to the opinion of the gynecologist. The doctor will tell you why you need to remove excess fibers and how this can affect the birth process itself.

Medical reasons for shaving

Whether it is necessary to shave before giving birth, each woman must decide for herself. But even if a young lady pays special attention to an intimate haircut and constantly maintains it, this is not a reason to refuse shaving, since new hairs will grow in a couple of months.

If a woman has any doubts, the first thing she needs to do is figure out why gynecologists insist on hair removal.

Doctors assure women that they need to shave their hair not because of established requirements, but to ensure maximum comfort and safety of the mother and child herself. During childbirth and during the rehabilitation process, the doctor may perform some manipulations that will be difficult if there is vegetation.

The main reasons justifying the need for prenatal hair removal:

Of course, the final decision remains with the woman in labor, but safety and comfort during such an important process are much more important than aesthetic beauty.

What are the best ways to remove hair?

Despite the fact that, if necessary, it can be carried out in the maternity hospital, it is much wiser and more comfortable to carry out the procedure at home. If you remove hair in advance, the skin will have time to calm down before the birth process itself, which will reduce the likelihood of irritation and inflammation.

Very often, women are interested in what is the best way to remove hair in the intimate area? Most experts advise using a regular razor, since shaving is the safest option for the baby.

Despite the apparent complexity, you can carry out this procedure yourself, using an ordinary mirror.

While shaving, you will need to place one leg on a chair and also place a mirror on it. This will help you fully see the “working” area and remove all hairs. If a woman cannot perform the procedure on her own, you can ask your sister or friend for help.

In addition to a razor, it is also permissible to use. Such products are also safe and will help you cope with the task in the shortest possible time.

The main task of the mother is to choose a product suitable for use during pregnancy, characterized by a hypoallergenic composition.

Many expectant mothers worry about when to conduct intimate preparation. You need to navigate based on the expected date of birth. You shouldn't put off shaving until the very last moment.

Despite the fact that it is possible to wax even during labor, it is much wiser to do it in advance. Even if the hair has time to grow a little, it will be much more convenient than thick vegetation in the bikini area. If for some reason a woman did not have time to shave, she should take the machine and foam with her to the maternity hospital.

In addition to the timing and methods of hair removal, a woman needs to know how to shave before giving birth. The following tips must be followed:

For a long time, shaving the bikini area before the upcoming birth was rule number one in all maternity hospitals. But today’s focus on Western countries, where this process is not mandatory, has abolished this rule. Of course, no one will kick out a woman who comes to give birth with a shaved crotch and pubis, but they will not force her to shave either.

Whether to shave before giving birth or not is at this time decided by the woman in labor herself. But as you yourself understand, it is much easier and more pleasant for a woman who is shaved to give birth.

Ask at the maternity hospital

To avoid unnecessary proceedings and disputes with maternity hospital workers, it is necessary to clarify whether it is necessary to shave the hair below the abdomen, since different hospitals have their own rules. This may also depend on the doctor delivering the baby (one considers pubic hair a completely natural element, while another finds it easier to deliver without obstacles).

If you have chosen a maternity hospital where shaving your pubic area is necessary, then it is better to do it at home - in a calm environment. And you will have more confidence in safety, quality and sterility. Because women who have already given birth love to scare people with horror stories of how nurses shave all women in labor with the same dirty and dull machine, although in reality this is not the case. But for your peace of mind, it’s better to prepare in advance - at home. If for some reason you did not have time to do this, then take everything you need (disposable razor, gel and aftershave oil) with you.

Decide for yourself

If the need for shaving before childbirth remains in doubt for you, then it would not hurt to find out the opinions of supporters and opponents of this procedure.

Shaving the pubic area is not only an aesthetic issue; there is also a medical aspect to this process. Pubic hair is an excellent habitat and breeding ground for all kinds of bacteria. This is a potential risk not only for the child who will pass through the birth canal, but also after childbirth, when it may be necessary to put stitches on the sites of tears or incisions, and doing this without hair is much better for various reasons. Immediately before the birth process, the perineum and pubis of women in labor are treated with a special solution, and this is much faster and easier to do when the skin is smooth and clean. In addition, for several months, lochia (postpartum discharge) is released from the vagina of a woman who has given birth, which, coupled with pubic hair, creates a favorable environment for infections and harmful bacteria.

But the opinions of experts, as always, are divided. There is another point of view. Some believe that women who shave their pubic area before giving birth endanger both the unborn child and themselves. And the reason for this is the microscopic cracks that appear even with the most careful shaving, and they can, in turn, cause the introduction of various infectious diseases into the female body.

But, as far as we think, this does not sound very convincing. And even if this is true, then removing hair from the pubic area before childbirth has much more advantages and they are more significant. However, this question is not the most important. The main thing is that your birth goes without complications, and a healthy baby is born.

natalykitik 19.08 17:19

I never even had any doubts about this question - of course, shaving is important both from the point of view of hygiene and from the point of view of psychological comfort. I found the strength to shave even during the period of toxicosis and in the last weeks of pregnancy. I can imagine how many “pleasant” emotions obstetricians experience when looking at the dense thickets in the intimate area, and I myself would feel out of place in such a situation. In addition, we need to think about the fact that it will simply be inconvenient for doctors to work.

The question of whether it is worth removing hair in the crotch area has not been an issue among modern women for a long time. Of course, not all of them do epilation of the intimate area, but more and more are coming to understand that it is very convenient and hygienic, and therefore they regularly remove hair not only in the armpits and legs, but also in the bikini area.

However, with the onset of pregnancy, many have to abandon this procedure. Some pregnant women continue to epilate the perineum, despite their position, but most are forced to suspend intimate care: salon types of hair removal pose a risk of increasing uterine tone and, as a result, the threat of miscarriage, and shaving is an inconvenient and impractical method.

However, at the end of the pregnancy period, one cannot help but remember about it. Women are beginning to wonder whether it is necessary to shave before giving birth.

Why shave before giving birth?

In many maternity hospitals, shaving before childbirth is a mandatory condition when a woman in labor is admitted. Not so long ago, this was a common requirement for all institutions: if a woman did not remove her hair on her own, then the midwife in the maternity hospital had to do it. Modern pregnant women can give birth with pubic hair, using their right to “refuse medical intervention” and leaving everything as it is.

However, do not be surprised if they refuse to admit you to the maternity hospital without a shaved pubic area: this still happens all the time, and everywhere has its own internal rules. And even though by law you have the right to refuse this, obstetricians and gynecologists have their own ideas about whether or not to shave before giving birth. They believe that doing this is highly desirable, and even mandatory, because shaving in this case is absolutely justified:

• Pubic hair creates ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria and often serves as a source of various infections and infections during childbirth. Their removal is an additional measure of safety, “disinfection” and sterility.
• During the birth of the baby's head, the midwife carefully observes the skin of the mother's perineum, trying not to miss the moment at which it may be necessary to cut it (with strong tension, the skin noticeably turns white). If the skin becomes very tight, the perineum will rupture during childbirth, which is very undesirable, and therefore it is better to make a neat incision in advance. Dense vegetation in this area completely blocks the “view” for the medical staff, that is, monitoring the birth process cannot be carried out fully.
• Very often, ruptures occur during childbirth, and stitches have to be placed in the perineal area. In this case, the hair will also only get in the way.
• In the postpartum period, during the release of lochia (postpartum uterine “bleeding”), hair in the perineum will further contribute to the development of inflammation and infections.

Therefore, when deciding this issue for yourself, you need to think about whether it is worth shaving your hair before giving birth, and not whether it is necessary to do it. And doctors believe that it is definitely worth it.

In any case, even if you decide not to shave your hair, it will not be superfluous to take a razor and foam with you to the maternity hospital so that, if necessary, you can use them and not the hospital “toolkit.”

When and how to shave before childbirth?

If you are doing sugar or wax hair removal, then it makes sense to prepare the perineum for childbirth in advance, so that you can be calm and not worry about anything. Even if by the beginning of labor the hair begins to grow a little, this is not a problem: the main thing is that it is not very long and thick.

As for shaving, it is best to do it as close to childbirth as possible. Even after the contractions start, you can still have time to shave (of course, if the birth is not rapid). This will not take much time, however, shaving the hair in the crotch yourself will be somewhat problematic, because the view is blocked by the stomach. Therefore, you can ask your sister, mother or husband for help if you trust them and if such manipulation will not embarrass any of you.

In principle, there is nothing complicated about this, the main thing is not to rush and not to be nervous. You can shave by touch, or you can also use a mirror, for example, by placing it on the bottom of the bathtub.

First, you need to thoroughly wash your hands, wash yourself (you can use a very weak solution of potassium permanganate) and disinfect the perineal area using the appropriate preparations - Miramistin, Octinisept, etc. (no need to separate them). Then apply foam or shaving gel to the surface to be treated and gradually shave the hair against its growth, pulling the skin in the direction opposite to the movement of the machine. Be sure to get a new razor blade. When the hair is removed, remove the remaining foam with a napkin and moisturize the skin with cream or cosmetic oil. Never use alcohol-containing substances before or after shaving, they will only cause irritation.

Depilatory creams, which can be purchased at a pharmacy or cosmetic store, can relieve shaving headaches. This cream is applied to the scalp, waited for several minutes according to the instructions and removed along with the fallen hairs using the spatula included with it.

But before using such a cream, you must find out whether it is contraindicated for pregnant women and whether it is suitable for removing pubic hair (most often only the legs are depilated with the cream).

Don't worry if you can't shave at home. The midwife in the maternity hospital will do everything herself if necessary, just take a new razor and skin care products with you. Of course, it is better to do everything yourself, because not all midwives shave equally carefully and diligently. And this is confirmed by numerous reviews.

Should I shave before giving birth: reviews

Pregnant women often discuss this topic on forums. They are not afraid of the need to remove pubic hair, but one thing confuses them: it is quite difficult to do it themselves, and trusting such an intimate manipulation to “someone else’s aunt” is uncomfortable. But don’t let the psychological aspect confuse you: when contractions begin, there will be no time for embarrassment.

But doubts about rudeness and carelessness on the part of the medical staff are not unfounded. Reviews confirm that sometimes midwives only shave, and even with dull old shaving machines. But in general, they already have a good hand in this matter, so there is nothing to be afraid of. Take everything you own with you - and think about childbirth, not shaving. Now the most important thing will be to breathe and push correctly, help your baby and welcome him into this world with love!

Especially for - Ekaterina Vlasenko

Nine months of waiting are over, and the long-awaited and exciting moment of the birth of the baby is finally approaching. Preparing for childbirth is a responsible and sensitive process. And if there are no problems with the necessary medications, clothes for the expectant mother and child, and nutrition, then issues of intimate hygiene, namely shaving before childbirth, are very worrying and cause doubts for women in labor.

1. Modern views on issues of prenatal hygiene.
2. Medical reasons for shaving.
3. How to remove intimate vegetation.
4. Tips and tricks.
5. Feedback from women in labor about shaving.

Modern views on issues of prenatal hygiene

Just a few years ago, the issue of shaving the perineum of women in labor was not even discussed. And if the expectant mother did not have time to take care of this in advance, in the prenatal room the nurse mercilessly fought with the hairs, not interested in the patient’s opinion. A razor or blade for it was a mandatory item on the list of necessary things.

Today, trends from the West are debunking the cult of hairless bodies, and this has also affected intimate parts. This approach to personal hygiene was also reflected in prenatal preparation. The woman in labor must decide for herself. Doctors will not insist on this in any way. And if it is decided that childbirth is not a reason to part with your hair, you will not see the surprised look of the midwife, and you will not hear the categorical opinion of the gynecologist.

But such views on the problem of shaving may not be supported by the staff of your maternity hospital. And, although doctors do not have the right to insist on removing hair in intimate places, it is better to find out the doctor’s opinion in advance and listen to his advice.

Medical reasons for shaving

Many ladies pay enough attention to their intimate haircut. But it doesn’t grow back for years. It is definitely possible to part with hairs for a short period. And if this process raises any doubts, you need to figure out why you should shave before giving birth.

Many experts, expressing their position on this issue, recommend shaving the hair in the perineum not for the sake of established requirements, but to ensure the convenience and safety of various manipulations during and after childbirth. On the scales of intimate beauty and birth hygiene, health and safety clearly outweigh.

Factors justifying the need for shaving:

• Hair in intimate areas is a great place for bacteria to appear. It is impossible to make hair perfectly sterile. Various infections and infections during childbirth can be caused by these microorganisms.
• The birth process of the baby is closely monitored by medical staff. The exit of the head is accompanied by changes in the color and tension of the skin. Excessive tension and the possibility of unwanted tears are indicated by noticeable whitening of the skin. Dense vegetation does not allow these changes to be seen and the midwife to make a careful incision in time.
• In case of ruptures, it is advisable to apply sutures to a hairless surface. Treating stitches after childbirth is also difficult due to excess hairs.
• The postpartum period is accompanied by uterine discharge. And excess vegetation in the perineum will contribute to the accumulation of infections and the development of inflammatory processes.

The decision is clear to the woman in labor, but the safety and convenience of such an important process as childbirth also depends on such little things as shaving the intimate areas.

How to remove intimate hair

You can, of course, not be too puzzled by this issue and entrust the procedure to an experienced midwife in the maternity hospital. But some women feel shame or embarrassment in front of a stranger. Yes, and a rapid birth may not allow time for depilation in the hospital. It is also very difficult to prepare the skin and allow it to calm down after such an intimate process in a hospital setting.

Therefore, it is advisable to carry out prenatal preparation of the pubis and perineum at home. How to shave before giving birth, when a rather rounded tummy blocks the necessary view? Using a regular mirror can make the process easier. To do this, the mirror is placed on a chair on which one leg is placed. The overview that opens will allow you to shave with ease.

If this option is unacceptable, you can turn to your mother, friend, or even your future father for help. Here everything depends on personal relationships, shyness or disgust of partners.

In addition to shaving options, some women in labor use special depilatory creams for hair removal, wax strips or epilators. Salon treatments with intimate haircuts are also offered. But during pregnancy it is unsafe to resort to this type of service.

Expectant mothers are also concerned about the timing of intimate preparation. Knowing the approximate date of birth, you can calmly navigate. Don't leave this preparation to the last minute. When contractions begin, you can have time to shave, but in most cases, patients have no time for this. Even if you miscalculate a little and the hairs grow back a little, it’s still better than dense vegetation. If you missed the opportunity to prepare at home, the maternity hospital will definitely help you. Just remember to bring a new razor, a fresh blade and shaving cream.

In addition to the timing and methods of removing hair in the perineum, you need to know how to shave properly before giving birth. To do this, follow these recommendations:

• To soften the hairs, take a warm bath. If your water begins to break, it is strictly forbidden to do this.
• Be sure to wash your hands and use personal hygiene products on your intimate areas. Suitable for disinfection of Miramistin, Octinisept.
• Irritation can be avoided by using shaving gel. It provides glide much better than foam. The gel is applied a few minutes before shaving.
• You can try dry shaving using talcum powder.
• Guide the razor only along the hair growth, without stretching the skin or applying strong pressure.
• After the execution, rinse the area with warm water. Use intimate gel for this. Afterwards treat the skin with lotion.
• Compresses with chamomile or string will help soothe the skin.
• Choose lotions and gels with low alcohol content to avoid unnecessary irritation.

Use the right technique and suitable care products, and shaving won't turn into torture for you.