Can You Get a Pedicure While Pregnant?

You haven't seen your toes for ages. 😬 So, can you get a pedicure while pregnant? We’ve got the low down, so you don't have to bend down.

There's nothing quite like a pedicure to usher in the summer weather or to make you feel super put together in your thick socks and winter boots.

Plus, they are just so relaxing!

But many mamas-to-be ask, “Can I get a pedicure while pregnant? Are they safe?”

Well, have we got good news for you!

In this article: 📝

Can you get a pedicure while pregnant?

You'll be excited to hear that the expert consensus is a resounding YES!

You can definitely get a pedicure when pregnant.

You may have heard some myths like the chemicals are dangerous, the massage can cause premature labor, and other terrifying tales.

Let us put your mind at rest.

Are there chemicals when you get a pedicure?

It's generally agreed that limited exposure to the chemicals in most nail treatment products is unlikely to harm either you or your baby.

The biggest concerns, though, usually come from acetone, phthalates, and methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA).

Acetone

This chemical is used to remove nail polish, but it’s fairly easy to get around.

There are many nail polish removers available now that don't contain acetone at all.

Chat with your salon about the options if you're unsure.

Phthalates

These chemicals are present in many self-care products including nail polish.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends avoiding these in pregnancy.

Luckily, it's possible to find non-toxic options.

Chat with your salon to see if they stock so-called “3 free” polishes, which are free of formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate. If not, they may be happy for you to bring in your own polish for them to use.

MMA

MMA is used to help stick artificial nails to your own nails.

This chemical can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, fatigue and rash.

Unfortunately, if artificial nails are your jam, it’s probably best to skip this treatment during pregnancy. 😞

What about the massage?

Arguably the best part of a pedi!

There are certain pressure points on the feet (and hands) that are thought to trigger contractions, although the science is not always conclusive.

The good news is that many salons have pregnancy-specific massage treatments that take those points (around the ankle and baby toe) into account.

Be sure to tell your therapist that you are pregnant, and they can adjust accordingly.

As long as they don't focus too hard on one spot, and the massage remains gentle with long soft strokes, you should be fine. One option is to ask your provider to omit those areas or simply avoid the massage completely.

Of course, there are also many benefits to pregnancy massage, according to the American Pregnancy Association.

Chat with your healthcare provider if you're at all unsure.

And hygiene?

Regardless of whether you're pregnant or not, a hygienic salon is a must!

Do they sterilize tools between clients?

Are the treatment areas kept scrupulously clean?

Nail salons can be the perfect place to pick up nail fungus.

And it’s no fun.

While a toenail fungus is unlikely to harm your baby, they are harder to treat when pregnant, as oral fungus medications are a pregnancy no-no.

You can always bring your own tools along to be extra sure, and ask that your cuticles be pushed back rather than cut, to decrease the risk of infection.

Can you get a pedicure while pregnant: first trimester?

If you're feeling rough with first trimester exhaustion and pregnancy nausea, you probably could use a pick me up.

But can you get a pedicure while pregnant in the first trimester?

You absolutely can!

The biggest problem here is likely to be the strong smells that often hang around a salon.

These smells are unlikely to help any pregnancy nausea you may be experiencing.

If you're in doubt about how you'll feel, check whether your salon has an outdoor space or a spot close to the door.

Can you get a pedicure while pregnant: second trimester?

This might actually be one of the easiest times to get a pedicure.

The exhaustion and pregnancy nausea so common in the first trimester is (hopefully) easing off, and you may even find you have a little extra spring in your step.

Take into consideration the above-mentioned chemicals and hygiene measures, and treat yo’ self in that second trimester, mama.

Can you get a pedicure while pregnant: third trimester?

The third trimester of pregnancy is also a great time for a pedi. 🎉

After all, you probably haven't seen your toes in a while now!

Best to get someone else to take care of those tootsies for you.

If you're super close to your estimated due date, you can always forgo the foot massage if you're unsure.

Top tip: ask if they would consider doing your head or shoulders instead as your feet soak.

So there it is! It looks like it’s always a good time to get a pedicure in pregnancy.

When in doubt, or if you have experienced any unusual pregnancy symptoms, check in with your primary health care provider.

Otherwise, mama, put those feet up and enjoy!