Are Manicures And Pedicures Safe While Pregnant?

In the weeks following a positive pregnancy test, first-time moms are often struck with the realization that the made-to-order bun in the oven also comes with a heaping side of maternal anxiety. In what seems like an instant, some women become acutely aware of how their health, habits, and actions will impact the life developing inside them. With this newfound sense of responsibility, people can begin to make the necessary alterations to their lifestyles — perhaps swearing off their beloved coffee for the next nine months or canceling all of their happy-hour plans for the foreseeable future.

Although some parts of daily life may require modification during pregnancy, others are fine as they are. Intense exercise, for example, is totally safe to continue heading into the third trimester, according to a 2020 study published in The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. In addition, you can also let your hairdresser tend to your dyed hair, as usual, as per the experts at The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. But what about your treasured manicures and pedicures? Are they safe to continue through pregnancy? Let's find out.

Tending to your toes with a growing bump can prove to be a challenge. Luckily, you won't have to do it alone, as WebMD reveals that treating yourself to a manicure and pedicure during pregnancy is generally considered safe. While some nail products may contain chemicals that can have adverse effects on pregnancy, most experts agree that the limited exposure you and your baby would procure during a visit is, more than likely, inconsequential. However, if you're still feeling nervous about it, there are some precautions you can take to put your mind at ease.

Since some nail polishes are made with formaldehyde and phthalates chemicals, which have been linked to reproductive issues, you might try searching for a water-based brand to make you feel safer (per What To Expect). In fact, you could even purchase a mom-approved polish before your appointment and bring it along with you. On the other hand, if inhaling the fumes inside the salon is a point of concern for you, asking to sit near a door or window or requesting a small fan to disperse the air can also help.

Keep in mind, because the hands and feet contain points known to trigger contractions, informing your technician that you would like a gentle massage near the webbing between the thumb and forefinger, or prefer to skip the massage entirely is a good idea (per WebMD). Now that you've got all your bases covered, sit back and relax, mama!