Pregnancy is a beautiful and special time in any woman’s life. However, it can also bring some physical changes that may be unexpected. One of the common but lesser known or discussed changes is the increase of hair growing on the belly during pregnancy.
While this is a very common and normal thing, it can be a source of anxiety or insecurity for some women. In this article, we will discuss why this happens, how common it is, how to feel more comfortable with this change, and what are the solutions to deal with hairy belly.
This article is not a substitute for medical advice.
What Causes Hairy Stomach In Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, including hormone fluctuations that can cause hair to grow on the stomach. Belly hair may be thicker and darker than the hair on your head or rest of your body hair.
In addition to the stomach, these hairs may also appear on the arms, chest, face (upper lip), glutes, lower back, neck, shoulders, and upper back. It is important to remember that in most cases is a completely normal process and nothing to be concerned about.
Causes Of Belly Hair
1. Increased hormone levels: During pregnancy, the body produces increased levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate hair growth. Moreover, androgen hormones, which your body produces more when you’re pregnant, are also responsible for thick hair – on your head as well as public areas, face and… BELLY!
2. Larger number of hair is in resting phase: When you’re expecting increased levels of hormone cause more hair to get into the resting phase which means your hair continues to grow, and less of your hair falls out.
3. Increased blood flow: The increased blood flow to the abdomen during pregnancy can stimulate the hair follicles and result in more visible hair.
4. Increased oil production: Some pregnant women experience an increase in oil production in the skin, which can make the hair more visible.
5. Genetic predisposition: Some women are genetically predisposed to having more hair growth during pregnancy, which can be due to their family history.
6. Stress: Stress can cause an increase in hormones that can lead to increased hair growth.
Does Growing Hair On Belly Means There Is Something Wrong With Pregnancy?
Lots of moms-to-be are wondering if hair on belly during pregnancy is something to be worried about.
Keep in mind that the presence of hair on the belly during pregnancy does not indicate a problem with the pregnancy. In MOST cases it is a normal and common “symptom” due to the hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy.
Belly hair on its own is not dangerous for your unborn child.
Will The Hair On Belly Fall Out After Pregnancy?
Yes, the hair that appeared on your belly during pregnancy, will most likely go away on its own after the baby is born. Experts say it may take up to 6 months1. This is due to the decrease in hormones that stimulate hair growth.
What’s interesting during postpartum lots of women notice hair loss, which means there are high chances that extra hair on your stomach will just fall out on its own or simply fade away.
If your belly hair is actually spreading and getting thicker after the delivery, you should do a blood test to rule out some medical conditions that may cause excessive hair growth (and also developing male like characteristics).
What To Do With Hair On Pregnant Belly?
Let me start by saying that having belly hair is NOTING TO BE AHAMED OF. If you’re feeling comfortable with your belly hair during pregnancy then there’s no need to get rid of them.
However, if you prefer to remove excessive hair from your stomach, feel free to use one of the cosmetic options that are pregnancy-safe.
Keep in mind that laser hair removal is not safe during pregnancy. You can use this method to get rid of unwanted hairs, but it is important to wait until after the baby is born. Another method to avoid when you’re expecting are: bleaching, electrolysis and chemical depilatory creams.
Pregnancy-Safe Ways To Remove Belly Hair During Pregnancy
Below you can see the methods that you can use while still being pregnant. Some of them you can use at home, others are professional hair removal methods.
Shaving
If you would like to remove the hair, shaving is a safe and effective option. Be sure to use a clean razor and shave in the direction of hair growth.
Waxing
Waxing is another pregnancy-safe option for removing the belly hair, however it should be done by a professional.
Keep in mind that during pregnancy your stomach skin is even more sensitive which means the irritation after waxing can be more serious.
Plucking & Tweezing
These are other safe ways to deal with excessive hair growth on stomach during pregnancy. These home remedies won’t irritate your delicate tummy.
Embrace It
If you choose to leave the hair, wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. Remember, you are beautiful and body hair growth is just a natural part of the pregnancy journey.
By the way, did you know that some women proudly shared their “furry” pregnant belly on Instagram?
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Should I Shave Hair On My Pregnant Belly?
Shaving is a safe and effective way to remove the hair on the belly during pregnancy if desired. However, it is important to keep in mind that the hair will usually go away on its own after the baby is born, so if you’re okay with waiting about 6 month after giving birth, it may not be necessary to shave your hairy belly at all.
Can I Prevent Developing Hair On My Belly During Pregnancy?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent the hair from growing on the belly during pregnancy. This is due to the normal hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy that stimulate hair growth.
Some pregnant women may feel insecure, less attractive and unsexy because of the new hairs on belly, especially if the above cosmetic options are not very effective and the extra hair are still visible.
Here are some ways to help you cope with the emotional effect of having hair on the belly:
- It can be helpful to talk to someone about your feelings and experiences. Talking to a friend, family member, or even a therapist can be a great way to get support and validation.
- Wearing clothing that makes you feel confident about yourself, as well as comfortable and beautiful can help to boost your self-esteem.
- Taking time for yourself to do things that make you feel good can help to lift your mood and boost your self-confidence.
- Remind yourself of the beauty and joy of pregnancy, and that the hair on the belly is just a small part of the journey.
When Does Hair Stop Growing On Belly After Pregnancy?
After the baby is born, your hormones (that are responsible for belly hair) will decrease. Generally, the hair will stop growing within a few weeks after delivery, and all that extra hair should be gone within 6 months after having a baby.
Does Hair On Stomach During Pregnancy Mean You’re Having A Boy?
Hairy belly doesn’t allow to predict your baby’s gender! This is a myth and there is no scientific evidence to support it. If you want to find out if you’re having a boy or girl, ask your doctor or OB-GYN to perform ultrasound.
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When You Should Talk To A Doctor About Hairy Stomach In Pregnancy?
In rare cases hairy belly can be caused by an underlying condition, like hyperandrogenism.
This condition also causes other symptoms that you should look for:
- irregular periods pre-pregnancy
- high blood pressure
- acne
- clitoral enlargement
- deeper voice
- rapid body growth and weight gain
- larger muscle mass
If you notice any of these symptoms or you’re worried about your hairy belly, that to your healthcare provider. You may need some prescribe medication.
The purpose of this article is informative. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice or medical care. Remember: safety first! Consult your doctor/pediatrician in case of any doubts. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here.
Resources:
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy
https://www.healthline.com/health/hairy-belly
https://www.babygaga.com/hairy-belly-pregnancy-explained
Source for the picture at the top: https://www.romper.com/pregnancy/heres-when-your-belly-button-will-pop-out-during-pregnancy-20478
Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂
Hi, some women say when they shaved it it remained and had to keep taking a razor to it even after the delivery, though hair shouldn’t grow back thicker.