is hair treatment safe for pregnancy?

Questions related to hair treatments during pregnancy are common. Most treatments involve chemicals and dyes which leave women wondering if they are safe.

The different types of hair treatments include:

• Coloring – this includes temporary dyes, semi-permanent dyes and permanent dyes.
• Curling – permanent waves are created by placing two solutions on the hair. The first solution is a waving solution and the second is a neutralization/fixation solution.
• Bleaching – involves the use of hydrogen peroxide
• Relaxers – are also known as hair straighteners and involve a variety of chemicals.

Are hair treatment chemicals dangerous during pregnancy?

Manufacturers frequently change formulas and many different chemicals are used in these processes. These chemicals are not generally evaluated for effects on pregnancy so limited data on use during pregnancy is available.

It is likely that only a small amount of any hair treatment chemicals are actually absorbed into a woman’s system through her skin. This minimal amount is not thought to be enough to create a problem for the baby. The fixation solution used during permanents may irritate the scalp but not affect other areas of the body and a minimal amount would be absorbed. The same would be true of chemicals used in the straightening process.

Are hair dyes safe during pregnancy?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), hair dyes are probably safe to use during pregnancy because so little dye is absorbed through the skin. However, it is still important to be cautious, therefore many health care providers recommend that pregnant women not use permanent hair dyes during the first three months.

While the absorption through the skin is minimal, the concern is that breathing fumes during the process could be harmful to the developing baby. Permanent hair dyes contain ammonia which has a strong chemical fume. The recommendation is to avoid hair dyes that contain ammonia. The chemical fume warning also applies to straightening products as well.

Semi-permanent dyes or a highlighting process may be considered safer for pregnant women. With highlights, the dye is enclosed in foil and won’t be absorbed into the skin. Vegetable dyes such as henna are also considered likely to be safe for coloring hair during pregnancy.

What precautions should I take when chemically treating my hair?

The following safety tips should be followed when chemically treating your hair:

• Consider waiting until the second trimester for hair dye, bleaching, permanents or straightening.
• Have the treatment completed in a well-ventilated area.
• Don’t leave the chemicals on your head any longer than necessary.
• Rinse your scalp thoroughly with water after treatment.
• Wear gloves when applying chemicals.
• Carefully follow directions on the product package.
• Do a patch test for allergic reactions before completing the process
• Never dye or bleach eyebrows or eyelashes. This could cause swelling or increase risk of infection in the eye area.

What if I work as a cosmetologist and am pregnant?

The risks during pregnancy come from working conditions, number of hours worked and exposure to the chemicals used in treating hair. Studies show that because of improved dye formulas and better working conditions, fewer risks are associated with this type of work.

Proper working conditions are important. These include working in a well-ventilated area, wearing protective gloves and not eating or drinking in the work area. These precautions reduce the exposure to hair treatment chemicals.

Is it safe to have hair treatments while I breastfeed?

It is unlikely that any chemicals would enter the breast milk because so little is absorbed through the skin.

cleaning products and its effects on pregnancy

Unfortunately ladies, most cleaning products are safe to use during pregnancy. Yes, even bleach. So you don't have to call a maid to do the household cleaning unless you want to. If you are going to stick to doing the dirty work yourself, there are steps that you can take while cleaning during pregnancy to keep you and your baby safe from harm.

Step 1: Make sure that you have good ventilation where you are cleaning

Step 2: Wear protective gloves and clothing to protect your skin

Step 3: Always read the warning and instruction labels

Step 4: Never mix different chemicals, such as ammonia and bleach; doing this can be very dangerous for anyone to inhale

Step 5: Avoid cleaning the oven since it is such a tight space and the ventilation is not good

Step 6: If your partner is around, have him do the cleaning!!!!

If you feel uncomfortable using chemical cleaning products, go natural. Using baking soda and vinegar can do wonders for cleaning just about anything in your home, from the kitchen to the bathroom.

Sauna may cause birth defects

For many pregnant women, sitting in a sauna sounds like a great way to ease muscle aches related to pregnancy. It is important to use caution when choosing a sauna for relaxation and pain relief. Saunas can cause hyperthermia, which is an abnormally high body temperature.

What is the concern with saunas during pregnancy?

According to the Organization of Teratology Information Services (OTIS), a body temperature of 101º F and above can raise concerns during pregnancy. Some studies have shown an increased risk of birth defects in babies of women who had an increased body temperature during the first trimester of pregnancy.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that becoming overheated in a sauna is not recommended during pregnancy.

There are various types of saunas, and every sauna is programmed to maintain a different temperature and humidity level. Before choosing to use a sauna during pregnancy, it is best to seek the advice of your health care provider.

How you can relax without using a sauna:

The Association recommends that you avoid the use of saunas during pregnancy to ensure you do not get overheated. Relieving stress and muscle aches is still important during pregnancy. Here are some ideas to help you relax.

• Take a warm bath
• Indulge in a massage from a professional or your partner
• Practice the breathing exercises you will use during labor

tips to prepare a birth plan

The birth of your baby should be one of the most memorable, life-changing and joyful experiences of your life. You will want to spend time thinking through the details of your hopes and desires for this special event. Starting with a journal, write down as many of thoughts and plans for the upcoming birth as you can. Your journal will help you establish priorities and provide a list of ideas to help you create a birth plan.

A birth plan is a simple, clear, one-page statement of your preferences for the birth of your child. Providing a copy of the plan for everyone directly involved in the birth will help them better understand what is happening and give them the opportunity to resolve issues before the big day. Because there are so many aspects of birth to consider, it is best not to wait until the last minute to put your plan together. The plan will provide an effective avenue for discussing important details with those responsible for supporting and caring for you.

Try to remain reasonably flexible in your desires because things don't always go according to plan. Remember that the important thing is the safe birth of your little bundle of joy. Keeping that goal in mind, the following points can serve as a guide for your plan.

1. Compile Considerations:

Find out ALL the routine policies and procedures for “mommy care” in your birth setting. If you do not agree with a policy or procedure, you should discuss it with your health care provider. As you learn more about what to expect, you will likely identify details that you want to include in your plan.

You may want to consider dedicating an entire page for an uncomplicated birth/postpartum and a second page about how to handle complications should they occur. The following list of questions might seem overwhelming, but now is the time to consider them one by one. If you find that a question does not pertain to you, just cross it off the list and continue to prioritize those that are relevant.

• Who do you want to be present?
• Do you want a doula?
• Will there be children/siblings present?
• Do you want mobility or do you wish to stay in bed?
• What activities or positions do you plan to use? (walking, standing, squatting, hands and knees)
• Do you prefer a certain position to give birth?
• What will you do for pain relief? (massage, hot and cold packs, positions, labor imagery, relaxation, breathing exercises, tub or Jacuzzi, medication)
• How do you feel about fetal monitoring?
• How do you plan to keep hydrated? (sips of drinks, ice chips, IV)
• Do you want pain medications, or not? Do you have a preference for certain pain medications?
• Would you be willing to have an episiotomy? Or, are there certain measures you want to use to avoid one?
• What are your preferences for your baby's care? (when to feed, where to sleep)
• Do you want a routine IV, a heparin/saline block, or neither?
• Do you want to wear your own clothing?
• Do you want to listen to music and have focal points?
• Do you want to use the tub or shower?
• For home and birth center births, what are your plans for hospital transport in case of emergency?
• If you need a cesarean, do you have any special requests?

2. Consult Health Care Provider:

Most of the time, health care providers have a set routine. They have been trained, and they also want what is best for the birth. They might or might not be receptive to some of your ideas. They might view your list as being too demanding or as increasing certain risks.

Keeping in mind that every birth is different and that the definition of a “normal” birth can vary, try to use terms and phrases like “birth preferences,” “our wishes for childbirth,” “as long as birth progresses normally,” or “unless there is an emergency.” Make an appointment with the labor and birth area of your hospital or birthing center to have the staff review your plan in order to make suggestions. You can request to spend time in an empty birthing or labor room to become more familiar with where you will be and what you might want to add to your packing list (extra pillows, pictures, music, etc). This should leave you feeling more confident about your birth plan and your choice of birth location.

3. Confidence & Control:

During childbirth, many women feel like they are losing control. A birth plan helps many women maintain their focus and regain a measure of control even if unexpected events occur.

Try to plan for the unexpected by using phrases like, “If a cesarean becomes necessary...” During birth, if you feel pressured to do something about which you are uncertain, you can ask if it is an emergency situation. You can also request more information on any aspect of the situation and time to think about it.

4. The Power of Positive Thinking:

Design your birth plan with a focus on the positive. Instead of making a list of what you don't want. Use words like, “We hope to” or “We plan to” or “We anticipate.” Try to avoid phrases like, “We don't want” or “We want to avoid.”

Here are some examples:

• “Regarding pain management, I have studied and understand the types of pain medications available. I will ask for them if I need them.”
• “Regarding an episiotomy, I am hoping to protect the perineum. I am practicing ahead of time by squatting, doing Kegel exercises, and perineal massage. I would appreciate guidance in when to push and when to stop pushing so the perineum can stretch.”
• “Immediately following the birth, I plan to keep the baby near me. I would appreciate the evaluation of the baby be done with the baby on my abdomen, with both of us covered by a warm blanket, unless there is an unusual situation.”

is caffeine dangerous for pregnant women?

Caffeine is one of the most loved stimulants in America! But now that you are pregnant, you may need to lighten up on the daily intake of your favorite drinks and treats.

Facts About Caffeine:

Caffeine is a stimulant and a diuretic.Because caffeine is a stimulant, it increases your blood pressure and heart rate, both of which are not recommended during pregnancy. Caffeine also increases the frequency of urination. This causes reduction in your body fluid levels and can lead to dehydration.

Caffeine crosses the placenta to your baby. Although you may be able to handle the amounts of caffeine you feed your body, your baby cannot. Your baby's metabolism is still maturing and cannot fully metabolize the caffeine. Any amount of caffeine can also cause changes in your baby's sleep pattern or normal movement pattern in the later stages of pregnancy. Remember, caffeine is a stimulant and can keep both you and your baby awake.

Caffeine is found in more than just coffee. Caffeine is not only found in coffee but also in tea, soda, chocolate, and even some over-the-counter medications that relieve headaches. Be aware of what you consume.

Fact or Myth?

Statement: Caffeine causes birth defects in humans.

Facts: Numerous studies on animals have shown that caffeine can cause birth defects, preterm delivery, reduced fertility, and increase the risk of low-birth weight offspring and other reproductive problems. There have not been any conclusive studies done on humans though. It is still better to play it safe when it comes to inconclusive studies.

Statement: Caffeine causes infertility.

Facts: Some studies have shown a link between high levels of caffeine consumption and delayed conception.

Statement: Caffeine causes miscarriages.

Facts: In 2008, two studies on the effects of caffeine related to miscarriage showed significantly different outcomes. In one study released by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, it was found that women who consume 200mg or more of caffeine daily, are twice as likely to have a miscarriage as those who do not consume any caffeine.

In another study released by Epidemiology, there was no increased risk in women who drank a minimal amount of coffee daily ( between 200-350mg per day.)

Due to conflicting conclusions from numerous studies, the March of Dimes states that until more conclusive studies are done, pregnant women should limit caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day. This is equal to about one 12 oz cup of coffee.

Statement: A pregnant woman should not consume ANY caffeine.

Facts: Experts have stated that moderate levels of caffeine have not been found to have a negative effect on pregnancy. The definition of moderate varies anywhere from 150 mg - 300 mg a day.

How much caffeine is in your favorite drinks & snacks?

• Starbucks Grande Coffee (16 oz) 400 mg
• Starbucks House Blend Coffee (16 oz) 259 mg
• Dr. Pepper (12 oz) 37 mg
• 7 Eleven Big Gulp Diet Coke (32 oz) 124 mg
• 7 Eleven Big Gulp Coca-Cola (32 oz) 92 mg
• Ben & Jerry's Coffee Buzz Ice Cream (8 oz) 72 mg
• Baker's chocolate (1 oz) 26 mg
• Green tea (6 oz) 40 mg
• Black tea (6 oz) 45 mg
• Excedrin (per capsule) 65mg

How much caffeine is too much?

The less caffeine you consume, the better. Some experts say more than 150 mg of caffeine a day is too much, while others say more than 300 mg a day is too much. Avoiding caffeine as much as possible is your safest course of action. If you must get your fix, it is best to discuss this with your health care provider to make the healthiest choice for you and your baby.

How vaginal bleeding could be harmful?

Vaginal bleeding can occur frequently in the first trimester of pregnancy and may not be a sign of problems. But bleeding that occurs in the second and third trimester of pregnancy can often be a sign of a possible complication. Bleeding can be caused by a number of reasons.

Some basic things to know about bleeding are:

• If you are bleeding, you should always wear a pad or panty liner so that you can monitor how much you are bleeding and what type of bleeding you are experiencing.
• You should never wear a tampon or introduce anything else into the vaginal area such as douche or sexual intercourse if you are currently experiencing bleeding.
• If you are also experiencing any of the other symptoms mentioned below in connection with a possible complication, you should contact your health care provider immediately.

First Half of Pregnancy:

Miscarriage:

Bleeding can be a sign of miscarriage but does not mean that miscarriage is imminent. Studies show that anywhere from 20-30% of women experience some degree of bleeding in early pregnancy. Approximately half of pregnant women who bleed do not have miscarriages. Approximately 15-20% of all pregnancies result in a miscarriage, and the majority occur during the first 12 weeks.

Signs of Miscarriage include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Cramping pain felt low in the stomach (stronger than menstrual cramps)
• Tissue passing through the vagina

Most miscarriages cannot be prevented. They are often the body's way of dealing with an unhealthy pregnancy that was not developing. A miscarriage does not mean that you cannot have a future healthy pregnancy or that you yourself are not healthy.

Ectopic Pregnancies:

Ectopic pregnancies are pregnancies that implant somewhere outside the uterus. The fallopian tube accounts for the majority of ectopic pregnancies. Ectopic pregnancies are less common than miscarriages, occurring in 1 of 60 pregnancies.

Signs of Ectopic Pregnancies:

• Cramping pain felt low in the stomach (usually stronger than menstrual cramps)
• Sharp pain in the abdominal area
• Low levels of hCG
• Vaginal bleeding

Women are at a higher risk if they have had:

• An infection in the tubes
• A previous ectopic pregnancy
• Previous pelvic surgery

Molar Pregnancies:

Molar pregnancies are a rare cause of early bleeding. Often referred to as a "mole", a molar pregnancy involves the growth of abnormal tissue instead of an embryo. It is also referred to as gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD).

Signs of a Molar Pregnancy:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Blood tests reveal unusually high hCG levels
• Absent fetal heart tones
• Grape-like clusters are seen in the uterus by an ultrasound

What are common reasons for bleeding in the first half of pregnancy?

Since bleeding that occurs in the first half of pregnancy is so common (20-30%), many wonder what the causes are besides some of the complications already mentioned. Bleeding can occur in early pregnancy due to the following factors, aside from the above mentioned complications:

• Implantation bleeding can occur anywhere from 6-12 days after possible conception. Every woman will experience implantation bleeding differently—some will lightly spot for a few hours, while others may have some light spotting for a couple of days.
• Some type of infection in the pelvic cavity or urinary tract may cause bleeding.
• After intercourse some women may bleed because the cervix is very tender and sensitive. You should discontinue intercourse until you have been seen by your doctor. This is to prevent any further irritation—having normal sexual intercourse does not cause a miscarriage.

Second Half of Pregnancy:

Common conditions of minor bleeding include an inflamed cervix or growths on the cervix. Late bleeding may pose a threat to the health of the woman or the fetus. Contact your health care provider if you experience any type of bleeding in the second or third trimester of your pregnancy.

Placental Abruption:

Vaginal bleeding may be caused by the placenta detaching from the uterine wall before or during labor. Only 1% of pregnant women have this problem, and it usually occurs during the last 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Signs of Placental Abruption:

• Bleeding
• Stomach pain

Women who are at higher risks for this condition include:

• Having already had children
• Are age 35 or older
• Have had abruption before
• Have sickle cell anemia
• High blood pressure
• Trauma or injuries to the stomach
• Cocaine use

Placenta Previa:

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta lies low in the uterus partly or completely covering the cervix. It is serious and requires immediate care. It occurs in 1 in 200 pregnancies. Bleeding usually occurs without pain.

Women who are at higher risks for this condition include:

• Having already had children
• Previous cesarean birth
• Other surgery on the uterus
• Carrying twins or triplets

Preterm Labor:

Vaginal bleeding may be a sign of labor. Up to a few weeks before labor begins, the mucus plug may pass. This is normally made up of a small amount of mucus and blood. If it occurs earlier, you could be enteringpreterm labor and should see your physician immediately.

Signs of Preterm Labor include these symptoms that occur before the 37th week of pregnancy:

• Vaginal discharge (watery, mucus, or bloody)
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pressure
• Low, dull backache
• Stomach cramps, with or without diarrhea
• Regular contractions or uterine tightening

Sexual Transmitted Disease and pregnancy

Can pregnant women become infected with STDs?

Yes, women who are pregnant can become infected with the same sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) as women who are not pregnant. Pregnancy does not provide women or their babies any protection against STDs. The consequences of an STD can be significantly more serious, even life threatening, for a woman and her baby if the woman becomes infected with an STD while pregnant. It is important that women be aware of the harmful effects of STDs and know how to protect themselves and their children against infection.

How do STDs affect a pregnant woman and her baby?

STDs can have many of the same consequences for pregnant women as women who are not pregnant. STDs can cause cervical and other cancers, chronic hepatitis, pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and other complications. Many STDs in women are silent; that is, without signs or symptoms.

STDs can be passed from a pregnant woman to the baby before, during, or after the baby’s birth. Some STDs (like syphilis) cross the placenta and infect the baby while it is in the uterus (womb). Other STDs (like gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B, and genital herpes) can be transmitted from the mother to the baby during delivery as the baby passes through the birth canal. HIV can cross the placenta during pregnancy, infect the baby during the birth process, and unlike most other STDs, can infect the baby through breastfeeding.

A pregnant woman with an STD may also have early onset of labor, premature rupture of the membranes surrounding the baby in the uterus, and uterine infection after delivery.

The harmful effects of STDs in babies may include stillbirth (a baby that is born dead), low birth weight (less than five pounds), conjunctivitis (eye infection), pneumonia, neonatal sepsis (infection in the baby’s blood stream), neurologic damage, blindness, deafness, acute hepatitis, meningitis, chronic liver disease, and cirrhosis. Most of these problems can be prevented if the mother receives routine prenatal care, which includes screening tests for STDs starting early in pregnancy and repeated close to delivery, if necessary. Other problems can be treated if the infection is found at birth.

Should pregnant women be tested for STDs?

Yes, STDs affect women of every socioeconomic and educational level, age, race, ethnicity, and religion. The CDC 2010 Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines recommend that pregnant women be screened on their first prenatal visit for STDs which may include:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B
• HIV
• Syphilis

Pregnant women should ask their doctors about getting tested for these STDs, since some doctors do not routinely perform these tests. New and increasingly accurate tests continue to become available. Even if a woman has been tested in the past, she should be tested again when she becomes pregnant.

Can STDs be treated during pregnancy?

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be treated and cured with antibiotics during pregnancy. There is no cure for viral STDs, such as genital herpes and HIV, but antiviral medication may be appropriate for pregnant women with herpes and definitely is for those with HIV. For women who have active genital herpes lesions at the time of delivery, a cesarean delivery (C-section) may be performed to protect the newborn against infection. C-section is also an option for some HIV-infected women.  Women who test negative for hepatitis B may receive the hepatitis B vaccine during pregnancy.

How can pregnant women protect themselves against infection?

The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.

Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, can reduce the risk of transmission of gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genital herpes, syphilis, and chancroid only when the infected area or site of potential exposure is protected by the condom. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms may reduce the risk for genital human papillomavirus (HPV) and associated diseases (e.g. warts and cervical cancer).