Questions
Do They Shave You Before You Have a Baby Girl?
No, they do not shave you before you have a baby girl—or any baby. Routine shaving before birth is not medically necessary and is no longer standard practice. You can choose to shave, trim, or leave your pubic hair as is; your care team will not judge you either way.
Shaving, waxing, or leaving it: what's safest for you and baby?
The short answer: there's no medical reason to remove pubic hair before birth. In fact, shaving can create micro-cuts that increase infection risk. Here's how the options compare:
| Method | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leave it natural | No irritation, no infection risk, zero effort | May feel self-conscious (but you shouldn't!) | Most people, especially if you're close to labor |
| Trim with electric trimmer | Reduces bulk without cutting skin, minimal irritation | Not as smooth as shaving | Anyone who wants neatness without risk |
| Shave with a razor | Smooth feel, familiar routine | Micro-cuts, razor burn, ingrown hairs, infection risk if done too close to birth | Only if you shave regularly and do it at least 24 hours before |
| Wax or sugar | Longer-lasting smoothness | Pain, skin sensitivity, risk of burns or infection if done improperly | Those who have waxed before and are not near term |
| Laser hair removal | Permanent reduction | Expensive, requires multiple sessions, not recommended during pregnancy due to hormonal skin changes | Not during pregnancy; wait until after birth |
Our team at The Midwife and More has supported 700+ hospital births and countless birth center deliveries. We've seen every hair style—and we've never once thought about it during the birth. What matters is that you feel comfortable and informed.
Do they shave you before you have a baby girl? The short answer
No. Routine shaving before birth was once a hospital procedure to reduce infection risk, but modern evidence shows it's unnecessary—and can even be harmful. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and other medical bodies no longer recommend pre-birth shaving. There is no evidence that shaved pubic areas lead to less infection.
If you're having a vaginal birth, your care team will not shave you. If you're having a C-section, the surgical team may use clippers to trim hair around the incision site—but they won't shave your entire pubic area. You can always ask your provider about their specific policy.
For families in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Camarillo, Fillmore, Calabasas, and Agoura Hills, our midwifery practice follows evidence-based care. We never require shaving, and we'll never make you feel awkward about your choices. If you have questions about what to expect, our midwives near you are happy to talk.
How to shave, wax, or sugar safely during pregnancy
If you decide to remove pubic hair, here's how to do it safely—especially in the third trimester when your belly makes it tricky.
- Choose the right tool – Use an electric trimmer with a guard to avoid nicks and cuts. If you prefer a razor, use a new one and go slowly.
- Trim first – If your hair is long, trim it to about a quarter inch before shaving. This prevents tugging and razor burn.
- Shave in the shower – Warm water softens hair and skin. Use a mirror or sit on the edge of the tub to see what you're doing. Many people say "I shaved by feel"—that's fine, just be gentle.
- Use shaving cream or gel – Never shave dry. A thick layer of cream reduces friction and irritation.
- Shave in the direction of growth – This minimizes ingrown hairs and razor bumps. It won't be as close, but it's safer.
- Moisturize after – Pat dry and apply a gentle, fragrance-free lotion. Avoid tight underwear for a few hours.
If you prefer waxing or sugaring, go to a professional with experience in prenatal waxing. Avoid waxing if you have sensitive skin or are prone to varicose veins. And always check with your midwife or doctor first—especially if you're over 37 weeks, as your skin is more sensitive and prone to tearing.
Do doctors or midwives care if you don't shave?
No. Your care provider has seen everything—and they genuinely don't care about your pubic hair. They're focused on your health and your baby's safety.
A good fit if…
- You feel comfortable leaving your pubic hair natural.
- You want to avoid any risk of infection or irritation.
- You're close to your due date and don't want to deal with regrowth.
Consider another option if…
- You feel more confident and comfortable when you're groomed.
- You have a personal preference for smoothness.
- You're planning a C-section and want to trim around the incision area.
The decision is entirely yours. If you're still unsure, talk to your midwife at your next prenatal visit. We're here to support you, not judge you.
Directions to our midwife near me from Wildwood Regional Park
Start at Wildwood Regional Park and head to The Midwife and More at 5115 Clareton Drive, suite #100, Agoura Hills, CA 91301.
Shaving before a C-section: what's different?
If you're having a C-section, the surgical team will need to access your lower abdomen. They may use electric clippers to trim hair near the incision site—just above the pubic line. This is done to reduce infection risk, but they will not shave your entire pubic area.
You don't need to do anything beforehand. The hospital or birth center will provide clippers if needed. If you prefer to trim yourself, do it at least 24 hours before surgery to avoid any skin irritation that could increase infection risk.
For more on C-section recovery, our [[c-section-scar-care-midwife|C-section scar care guide]] can help you plan ahead.
Is hair removal safe during pregnancy?
Yes, removing hair manually—tweezing, shaving, waxing, sugaring—is totally safe during pregnancy for most people. The main risks are skin irritation, infection from micro-cuts, and increased sensitivity due to hormonal changes.
Avoid laser hair removal during pregnancy, as hormonal changes can make your skin more sensitive and prone to pigmentation changes. If you have any concerns, ask your midwife. At The Midwife and More, we're happy to advise you on safe grooming practices throughout your pregnancy.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you shave before birth?
Yes, you can shave before birth if you choose to, but it's not required. If you shave, do it at least 24 hours before labor to reduce the risk of micro-cuts and infection. Trimming with an electric trimmer is the safest option.
Do they shave you before you have a baby?
No, they do not shave you before you have a baby. Routine shaving is not medically recommended. For C-sections, the surgical team may use clippers to trim hair near the incision, but they won't shave your entire pubic area.
What happens if I accidentally shaved before surgery?
If you accidentally shave before a C-section or any surgery, don't worry. Just let your surgical team know. They will assess the area and may clean it with antiseptic. Shaving increases the risk of skin irritation, but it's not dangerous as long as you don't have any open cuts.
How to remove pubic hair during pregnancy?
The safest methods are trimming with an electric trimmer or shaving with a fresh razor and shaving cream. Waxing and sugaring are also safe if done by a professional. Avoid laser hair removal during pregnancy due to hormonal skin changes.
Do obgyn care if you don't shave?
No, OB/GYNs and midwives do not care if you don't shave. They are medical professionals focused on your health and your baby's safety. Your pubic hair has no bearing on the quality of care you receive.
Also asked as
- Do they shave you before you have a baby?
- Do doctors shave pubic hair before delivery?
- Is shaving required before giving birth?