Quick Answer
There is no medical reason why you can’t shave your legs, underarms or bikini area before going into labor. Many women prefer to groom themselves before delivery so they feel fresh and tidy. However, shaving is not necessary and some doctors advise against it since there is a small risk of infection if you nick yourself while shaving. Most obstetricians agree that a hospital gown and epidural provide adequate modesty during labor and delivery. Focus on your comfort in early labor and speak with your doctor about preferences for grooming before active labor begins.
Can I Shave My Legs Before Delivery?
Yes, you can shave your legs before going to the hospital to give birth. There is no medical reason not to shave your legs close to your due date or in early labor. Many women prefer smooth legs for comfort, confidence and cleanliness during the messy process of childbirth.
Some doctors advise against shaving too close to your due date since there is a small risk of infection if you cut yourself shaving. However, most experts agree that shaving your legs with care is fine in pregnancy. Focus on shaving areas that will be exposed during childbirth, like your legs and pubic area.
Here are some tips for safe and comfortable shaving before delivery:
- Use a new razor to avoid nicks and irritation.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth to prevent ingrown hairs.
- Use a moisturizing shave gel or cream to protect skin.
- Rinse thoroughly after shaving and pat dry.
- Apply moisturizer post-shave if desired.
- Wear loose clothing after shaving to avoid friction.
- Shave early in labor or the day before your induction.
- Ask your partner for help if bending is difficult.
Shaving your legs before arriving at the hospital can make you feel refreshed and confident before your delivery. But don’t worry about shaving once you are in active labor – just focus on your comfort.
Is it Okay to Shave Bikini Area Before Birth?
Most obstetricians agree it is safe to trim or shave your bikini area before going into labor if desired. Some women prefer a tidy bikini area during childbirth for comfort and hygiene. However, shaving is not necessary before delivery.
Here are a few things to keep in mind about grooming your bikini area before giving birth:
- Use an electric trimmer or men’s razor to avoid nicks.
- Avoid aggressive razors that give a close shave.
- Shave early in pregnancy or in early labor.
- Trim rather than shave bare for some coverage.
- Apply soothing aloe vera gel after grooming.
- Wear loose cotton underwear and pants.
- Skip grooming if you notice irritation or bumps.
Your nurse and doctor will use drapes to cover your lower body during the actual delivery. So while grooming your bikini line is safe before labor, keep in mind it’s not a necessity. Focus on your comfort.
Should I Shave My Underarms Before Labor?
It’s fine to shave your underarms before going into labor if it makes you feel clean and confident. Some women prefer smooth underarms for comfort during childbirth. However, shaving underarms is not required before delivery.
The hormones of pregnancy may make your underarm hair grow faster. Trimming long hairs with scissors pre-labor can help you feel tidy. Use care shaving due to sensitive pregnancy skin. Consider asking your partner for help reaching your underarms.
Here are some underarm shaving tips before giving birth:
- Use a clean, new razor and shaving cream.
- Shave in the direction of hair growth.
- Rinse thoroughly and apply deodorant if desired.
- Wear a cotton T-shirt or sleeveless gown in labor.
- Focus shaving on areas exposed during delivery.
- Don’t worry about stubble as long as you feel comfortable.
While shaving your underarms pre-labor is safe, don’t feel obligated. Your focus should be on comfort and minimizing stress as you go into labor.
When Should I Shave Before Delivery?
The best time to shave your legs, underarms or bikini area is during early labor or the day before your scheduled induction. This allows any irritation or razor bumps to resolve before active labor begins.
Here is a guide to timing your pre-labor grooming:
- Early labor: Contractions are 5-10 minutes apart.
- 24-48 hours pre-induction: If being induced, shave 1-2 days prior.
- 38-40 weeks: Shave earlier in pregnancy if desired.
- Never during active labor: Focus on breathing once contractions intensify.
Shaving during early latent labor can help pass time while contractions are still mild. Have your partner assist if bending is difficult. The priority is minimizing stress while grooming.
What Do Doctors Recommend?
Most obstetricians agree it is safe to shave your legs, bikini line and underarms before going into labor – with some precautions. Here are general guidelines doctors provide:
- Use a clean razor and shaving cream or gel.
- Be very gentle shaving bikini area.
- Shave at least 24 hours before induction.
- No need to shave bare – trim long hairs only.
- Avoid shaving if you notice irritation or red bumps.
- Don’t shave during active labor – focus on breathing.
- Hospital gown provides adequate modesty.
While shaving before labor is safe, doctors emphasize there is no medical need. You will be covered by hospital gowns and blankets during delivery. Focus on your preferences and comfort.
Potential Risks of Shaving Before Labor
While shaving before delivery is generally safe, doctors recommend being cautious due to a small risk of the following:
- Infection: An open cut could get irritated during delivery.
- Skin irritation: Sensitive pregnancy skin may react.
- Ingrown hairs: Can cause painful bumps during recovery.
- Razor burn: Using a dull or harsh razor may cause irritation.
To minimize risks, use a clean razor with shaving cream and proper technique. Avoid shaving over irritated skin or moles. Apply aloe vera gel after grooming and wear loose clothing.
The odds of complications are low with proper hygiene. However, avoiding shaving altogether eliminates any potential risks.
Are There Benefits to Pre-Labor Shaving?
While shaving before delivery is not medically advised, some women feel the below emotional and comfort benefits make grooming worthwhile:
- Self-confidence: Looking tidy can provide a mental boost before labor.
- Fresh feeling: Smooth skin feels clean during the sweat and fluids of labor.
- Comfort: Less body hair provides comfort in stirrups and contractions.
- Habit: Regular grooming is part of some women’s routine.
- Pass time: Grooming provides distraction in early labor.
If you choose to shave before labor, be mindful of any irritation and don’t obsess over perfection. Focus on your emotions rather than appearance.
What Are the Alternatives to Shaving Before Birth?
Shaving before labor is optional. There are alternatives to provide comfort and modesty during childbirth without the need to shave:
- Skip shaving – hospital gowns and sheets provide coverage.
- Use an electric trimmer instead of razor – less irritation.
- Wear long socks or leggings – covers leg hair.
- Pack loose cotton shorts – provides bikini coverage.
- Apply moisturizer instead of shaving – softens hair.
- Focus on breathing over appearance during labor.
- Take comfort in epidural and medical team’s professionalism.
While grooming is safe if desired, keep in mind modesty and hygiene are ensured during delivery without shaving. Focus on your own comfort and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it bad to shave right before giving birth?
Shaving right before labor is not recommended but is generally safe if done gently. Doctors advise shaving at least 24 hours before induction to allow any irritation to resolve. Use care and avoid shaving over moles or skin bumps which are prone to bleeding.
Should you shave down there before delivery?
Shaving your bikini area before delivery is optional. Trimming long pubic hairs can provide comfort. But shaving bare is not necessary as you will be covered by hospital drapes during the actual birth. Avoid aggressive razor styles to prevent bumps.
Do hospitals prefer you to shave before birth?
Hospitals do not require or encourage shaving before coming in for delivery. Nurses and doctors are focused on your health, not grooming. Provided drapes and gowns give adequate modesty without needing to shave.
What do most OBGYNs say about shaving for labor?
Most OBGYNs say that shaving your legs, underarms and bikini area before labor is safe if done gently at least 24 hours before induction. However, they emphasize there is no medical need to shave. Groomed or not, your doctor’s priority is your comfort and a safe delivery.
Is it harder to shave your legs pregnant?
Shaving legs can be more difficult with a pregnant belly. Have your partner help or use techniques like bending your leg up on a ledge for better access. Take care and go slowly to prevent nicks on sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Shaving your legs, underarms and bikini area before going into labor is generally safe if done carefully at least a day before induction. While not medically advised, some women prefer grooming pre-delivery for confidence and comfort. Focus on your own preferences. Doctors’ main priority is maximizing your comfort and safe delivery whether you choose to shave or not.