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Intimate Hygiene Tips During Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings about many changes in your body, and maintaining intimate hygiene becomes especially important. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind.

When you're feeling uncomfortable, and your pregnancy body is changing daily, keeping on top of your general and intimate hygiene routine can become difficult, and often feels like a bit of a chore. But maintaining overall health, can help contribute to a more comfortable pregnancy. Here are some key reasons why hygiene is crucial during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, you might notice an increase in vaginal discharge, don't worry, this is absolutely normal and helps prevent infections from traveling up from the vagina to the uterus. Hormonal changes, such as increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone, contribute to this increase in vaginal discharge.

Here’s Our Top 5 Intimate Hygiene Tips During Pregnancy

  • Clean Gently and Regularly

    • Use warm water to wash your genital area daily.
    • Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, or scented products as they can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH levels.
  • Wear Breathable Fabrics

    • Opt for cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes to allow for better air circulation and reduce the risk of infections.
  • Change Your Underwear Frequently

    • Due to increased discharge, changing your underwear more frequently can help you stay fresh and prevent irritation.
  • Practice Safe Wiping

    • Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent the spread of bacteria from the rectal area to the vagina.
  • Stay Hydrated

    • We know you're probably fed-up already of the constant visits to the loo. But drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
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Use Pantyliners Daily To Feel Clean and Fresh

You’ll likely be experiencing increased discharge during pregnancy, using unscented pantyliners can help you feel more comfortable. Be sure to change them regularly.

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And For Those Hard To Reach Areas

Lil-Lets Maternity Intimate Wipes are designed with mums in mind, for both pre and post birth use and ideal for use between maternity pad or pantyliner changes.

  • Twice the size of standard intimate care wipes, to help you easily reach around your baby bump.
  • Lil-Lets Maternity Intimate Wipes are super soft, thick and moist, perfect for post birth delicate skin. This is particularly important if you’ve had stitches.
  • Lil-Lets Maternity Intimate Wipes are dermatologically & gynecologically tested to ensure they are non-irritating and safe to use on sensitive skin. They are pH balanced and gentle, so they can be used multiple times a day and won’t disrupt your natural pH.

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General Hygiene In Pregnancy

Maintaining good hygiene during pregnancy is crucial for your health and well-being, as well as that of your developing baby. Here are some general hygiene tips to keep in mind during this special time.

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Oral Hygiene

Pregnancy can have a significant impact on your oral health due to hormonal changes, increased blood flow, and altered immune response. These changes can result in tooth decay and Gingivitis.  

  • Brush and Floss: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent gum disease, which can affect your pregnancy.
  • Mouthwash: consider using a mouthwash daily to help reduce plaque.
  • Dental Visits: Continue regular dental check-ups and cleanings. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy.

And if you suffer with morning sickness, be sure to rinse your mouth with water and mouthwash to neutralise any stomach acid left in the mouth.

Facial Skin Care

Pregnancy can really play havoc with your skin, and you may find you need to rethink your usual skincare routine as hormone levels fluctuate.  Here are some common skin changes that occur during pregnancy and tips on how to manage them:

Hyperpigmentation

Melasma (Mask of Pregnancy) Brown or greyish patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and upper lip are caused by increased production of melanin due to hormonal changes.

How To Treat:

  • Sun Protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to prevent further darkening of the skin.
  • Gentle Skincare: Use mild, non-irritating skincare products to avoid exacerbating pigmentation.

Acne

Increased oil production can lead to acne breakouts, similar to those experienced during puberty, again we have hormones to blame for these outbreaks and in increase in sebum production.

How To Treat:

  • Gentle Cleansing: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser twice daily.
  • Avoid Harsh Products: Stay away from acne treatments containing retinoids or salicylic acid without consulting a healthcare provider.
  • Oil-Free Products: Choose oil-free moisturisers and makeup.

Increased Sensitivity

For 9 months your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight, heat and other irritants, in other words your skin may become more reactive to your usual skin products and household items.

How To Treat:

  • Hypoallergenic Products: Use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free skincare and laundry products.
  • Sun Protection: Protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing.
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Your Skincare Routine - Best Buys

If you’re one of the lucky ones who finds their hair and skin has never looked better during pregnancy, you should still practice a daily skincare routine that should include the following:

  • Using mild, fragrance-free cleansers to avoid skin irritation.
  • Keeping your skin hydrated to help with dryness.
  • Use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, as pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

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Bathing & Showering

There’s no reason why you can’t shower or bathe daily when pregnant to maintain cleanliness and comfort, and for some a warm bath can ease any aches or cramps, you may be experiencing.

  • Temperature: You should avoid hot baths or showers, instead opt for warm water to prevent overheating.
  • Products: Use mild, unscented soaps and toiletries and if possible, highly perfumed products such as bubble baths, or bath oils that can irritate your skin or increase the risk of infections.

Clothing

Comfortable clothing during pregnancy can make a significant difference in how you feel as your body changes. Here are some tips to help you choose and wear clothing that will keep you comfortable throughout your pregnancy:

  • Comfort: Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton.
  • Cleanliness: Chances are you will sweat more during pregnancy, especially if you carry during the summer months, and a daily or twice daily change of clothes can help you feel fresh and avoid skin irritation caused by sweating.

Hand & Nail Hygiene

Regular handwashing is one of the best ways to keep yourself healthy and prevent the spread of illness in your family. It physically removes germs through friction, so make sure to wash your hands properly and frequently, especially during pregnancy.

  • Wash Regularly: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, handling raw food, touching pets, or caring for children.
  • Use Hand Sanitiser: When soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
  • Keep Nails Short: Trim your nails regularly to keep them clean and prevent infections.

Rest and Sleep

  • Bedding: You’re going to be spending more time resting during your pregnancy and there really is nothing better than slipping into some clean and fresh bedding, especially if you are having sleepless nights and moving around a lot.
  • Sleeping Position: Use pillows for support and try to sleep on your side, preferably the left side, to improve blood flow to the baby.

Maintaining good general and intimate hygiene during pregnancy is essential for your comfort and health. By following these tips and being attentive to any changes, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as itching, burning, unusual odour, or abnormal discharge colour, contact your doctor or midwife, these could be signs of an infection that may need medical attention.

Lil-Lets For Your Intimate And General Hygiene Needs

Vaginal Discharge In Pregnancy

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any signs of infections I should watch for during pregnancy?

Yes, signs include unusual discharge (green, yellow, or thick like cottage cheese), strong odour, itching, burning, or pain during urination. If you experience any of these, seek medical advice.

Can I swim in public pools while pregnant?

Yes, swimming is generally safe and a great form of exercise during pregnancy. However, make sure to shower immediately after swimming and change out of wet swimsuits promptly to avoid infections.

How often should I wash my intimate area during pregnancy?

It’s recommended to wash your intimate area once daily with warm water. Over-washing can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast.

Should I use special products for intimate hygiene during pregnancy?

Mild, unscented soaps or intimate washes specifically designed for sensitive skin are best. Avoid douching and harsh chemicals.

What should I do if I experience itching or discomfort in the intimate area?

Itching can be due to dryness, irritation, or infections. Use gentle, unscented products and wear loose-fitting clothes. If itching persists, consult your doctor or midwife

Is it normal to experience more discharge during pregnancy?

Yes, increased vaginal discharge is common due to hormonal changes. It should be clear or white and odourless. If it changes colour, consistency, or has a strong odour, consult your healthcare provider.

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