Worried about getting a mani? 6 pregnancy questions ANSWERED
Pregnancy is a mine-field of trying to figure out what is safe and what isn't when it comes to baby.
And for many, things like knowing if a spray tan is OK or if they have to get rid of their cat can keep them up all night.
So, to help put your mind at ease, we have answered six random questions that might be stressing you out right now.
1. Is it safe to get a spray tan pregnant?
Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the most common colouring agent in today’s fake tanning formulas, typically stays in the top layer of your skin. However, some studies have found that it IS possible for trace amounts to permeate deeper, but the doses are so small that it is unlikely to harm you.
In saying this, you may accidentally inhale the chemical and it is not known if this is potentially harmful to your baby, so it is best to stick to creams and lotions for now. Also, while DHA is a non-toxic substance, there is a risk you could have an allergic reaction to it, especially as your hormone levels can make your skin more sensitive.
2. Is it safe to get a pedicure when pregnant?
Getting a mani or pedi during pregnancy is a great way to relax and really put your feet up – literally, and some salons even cater for mamas-to-be. However, that won’t stop some pregnant ladies worrying about whether it is safe or not.
So is it? Well, while breathing in large amounts of the chemicals found in nail polish is not exactly good for either you or your baby, the short time you’d be in there getting your nails done is fine. Although we wouldn’t recommend you get them done every week or anything!
3. Is it safe to get a filling when pregnant?
While pregnancy should not prevent you from having dental treatment, many dentists will opt to leave any elective procedures until after Baby is born, particularly during the first and third trimesters.
X-rays should also be avoided, but in the case of emergency they may be taken. ALWAYS tell your dentist if you are pregnant or think you may be.
4. Is it ok to get a massage while pregnant?
It is perfectly fine to get a massage when you are expecting, in fact, it is a great way to relax and unwind, especially as you approach your final trimester.
However, when choosing your salon do make sure your masseuse is certified in perinatal massage.
5. Is it ok to pet a kitten while pregnant?
Don’t worry, you won’t have to say goodbye to your cat the moment you find out you are pregnant. However, your feline friend does play a role in the spread of toxoplasmosis which can be extremely dangerous to your unborn baby. But by following these helpful tips you should be perfectly fine:
- Avoid changing the cat litter yourself; however, if there is no one else around use disposable gloves and wash your hands with warm soapy water after
- The toxoplasma parasite become infectious one to five days after it is shed in a cat’s faeces, so make sure the cat litter is changed every day
- Don’t feed your pet raw or undercooked food, if possible – try to stick to dry or canned
- Don’t get a new cat when pregnant
- Wear gloves when gardening incase the area is contaminated with cat faeces
6. Is it ok to paint when pregnant?
For many mums, getting the nursery ready for baby is one of the best parts of pregnancy. However, when it comes to painting the room, many are worried about the effects of the paint fumes.
And while the risk of fumes is quite low, there are no studies to say whether it is safe or not. If possible, get someone else to do it for you, or if you have to do it wait until the 14th week at least.
However, as with most aspects of pregnancy, if you are unsure or don’t feel comfortable either talk to your doctor or avoid it – it just won’t be worth the stress that you are likely to experience following.