Can I Do Brazilian Laser Hair Removal While Pregnant?

You’re pregnant. You’re glowing. But body hair? It’s growing. If you’re used to staying smooth with laser hair removal—especially in your bikini or Brazilian area—you might be wondering: Can I still get laser while I’m pregnant? Especially with salons saying “yes,” but the internet (and your gut) whispering “maybe not.”

Let’s break this down with real facts, real risks, and real talk from moms who’ve been there.

Does brazilian laser hair removal cause infertility?

The Short Answer: No, Brazilian Laser Hair Removal During Pregnancy Is Not Recommended

While some clinics might offer the service, most certified professionals, OB-GYNs, and dermatologists strongly advise against doing laser hair removal—especially in the Brazilian area—while pregnant. There are two core reasons for this:

1. Lack of Medical Research on Fetal Safety
2. Increased Skin Sensitivity and Hormonal Changes

Let’s get into the why.

Why There’s Not Enough Research on Laser During Pregnancy

The main reason laser hair removal isn't medically approved during pregnancy is because no large-scale studies exist to prove it’s completely safe. Pregnant people are usually excluded from clinical trials to avoid risk to the fetus.

Laser hair removal uses intense light energy (IPL or diode lasers) that targets melanin in hair follicles. While this energy is focused on the skin and doesn’t directly reach internal organs or the baby, we don’t fully understand its cumulative effects on hormonal and sensitive pregnant bodies.

So, most reputable clinics err on the side of caution—and so should you.

How Laser Hair Removal Feels on Every Body Part

Hormonal Shifts Make Laser Less Effective Anyway

Even if safety weren’t a concern, there’s another catch: Your pregnancy hormones are messing with your hair growth cycle.

• Increased estrogen may temporarily slow hair shedding.
• Increased testosterone in some pregnancies can trigger new hair growth in weird places (hello, belly fuzz).
• Laser targets hair in the “growth” (anagen) phase—but pregnancy may push more hair into resting (telogen) phase, making sessions less effective.

Many moms who lasered pre-pregnancy say their hair grew back thicker or unevenly during or after pregnancy due to hormonal shifts. You could spend hundreds on sessions only to need them again postpartum.

Why Brazilian Laser Hair Removal Is Riskier Than Legs or Arms

Some salons may tell you: “It’s okay to laser your legs or underarms while pregnant, just not your bikini or Brazilian area.” Why the distinction?

Here’s the reasoning:

• The Brazilian area is much more vascular, meaning more blood vessels and sensitivity.
• It’s closer to the reproductive organs and fetus—even though laser light doesn’t travel deeply, this proximity raises ethical and comfort concerns.
• Increased blood flow, swelling, and pigmentation during pregnancy make the skin in this area more vulnerable to burns, discoloration, and irritation.

So, even if you’re tolerating laser elsewhere, Brazilian treatments are typically paused until after childbirth.

Reddit Discussions & Personal Experiences

Let’s talk real life. A Reddit thread about laser hair removal during pregnancy shared experiences that echo medical advice:

“I work for a laser company. We don’t treat anyone who’s pregnant. Your hormones are high and you probably won’t see results anyway.” –

“My OB’s office said absolutely no laser until after birth. And laser can worsen melasma during pregnancy.”

“I did full sessions before pregnancy but my hair came back thicker! Total waste of money.”

“I had two kids after doing Brazilian laser, and now I’m starting over again. Just wait till you’re done having babies.”

These comments reflect not just medical caution, but also financial and emotional frustration. Why go through costly sessions now, if hormones are just going to undo it?

Potential Risks of Laser During Pregnancy

Let’s be clear: Laser hair removal isn’t guaranteed to harm you or your baby—but the following risks do exist:

1. Increased Risk of Burns and Blistering

Pregnancy makes your skin more sensitive, especially in intimate areas, which can heighten the risk of burns or blistering during laser treatment.

2. Higher Chances of Hyperpigmentation or Melasma

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can trigger melasma, and laser exposure may darken the pigmentation even more.

3. Unpredictable and Ineffective Results

Hair growth cycles shift during pregnancy. Since laser only targets actively growing hairs, dormant follicles may go untreated—causing regrowth after childbirth.

4. Lack of Reliable Safety Data

There is no extensive research proving laser hair removal is completely safe during pregnancy, so risks to both mother and baby remain uncertain.

5. Lower Pain Tolerance During Pregnancy

Pregnant women often experience heightened sensitivity, meaning what used to feel like a mild snap from the laser might now be noticeably more painful.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

No amount of smooth skin is worth risking your comfort, baby’s safety, or your wallet. The safest move? Pause your laser sessions until after you deliver. Then, revisit your treatment plan with your provider when hormones normalize and your skin isn’t hypersensitive.

Yes, it’s annoying. Yes, shaving sucks. But you’re doing something powerful: growing a human. Hair can wait—your health and peace of mind come first.

Quick Takeaways

• Brazilian laser hair removal is not recommended during pregnancy.
• No reliable studies prove it’s 100% safe.
• Hormones may undo your results anyway.
• Choose safer options like shaving or sugaring until postpartum.
• Always consult your OB-GYN before any cosmetic procedure.