Pregnancy is undoubtedly one of the most critical and exciting times in a woman’s life.

However, during pregnancy, the woman’s body undergoes several hormonal and physiological changes that may lead to various health issues, including nail problems. Nail health is essential, as they act as delicate protective barriers for your fingers and toes. Without proper care, nails may become brittle, discolored, and prone to breakage.

Therefore, it is essential to maintain healthy nails, especially during pregnancy, where the nails can become weak and brittle easily. Here are some helpful tips on How to keep your nails healthy during pregnancy.

Tip 1: Keep Nails Dry and Clean

Keeping your nails clean and dry is one of the simplest ways to maintain their health. Moisture can cause the nails to become soft and brittle, leading to breakouts and infections.

Additionally, changes in hormone levels can make the nails grow at a slower pace, leading to accumulation of dirt and other debris under the nails. To keep nails dry and clean, avoid prolonged exposure to water and harsh chemicals, such as detergents and cleaning agents. Wear gloves when engaging in household chores that involve exposure to water and chemicals.

Tip 2: Maintain a Healthy Diet

Your nails need essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and protein, to remain strong and healthy. Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is vital for keeping your nails healthy.

Foods rich in biotin, such as eggs, nuts, and whole grains, can help strengthen the nails and prevent them from breaking. Additionally, foods rich in vitamin C and E, such as citrus fruits and berries, can help maintain the collagen in your nails, leading to healthy nail growth.

A well-balanced diet ensures that your body receives all the necessary nutrients for optimal nail health.

Tip 3: Stay Hydrated

Hydration is crucial during pregnancy, and it’s equally important for nail health. Low water intake can cause nails to become weak and brittle, leading to cracks and breakouts.

Experts recommend drinking at least eight glasses of water per day to keep the body hydrated. This way, the nails remain supple and healthy, reducing the risk of breakage and chipping.

Tip 4: Massage Cuticles

The cuticles play a crucial role in nail health, protecting the nails from infection and trauma. Massaging the cuticles during pregnancy can promote blood flow to the nail bed, leading to healthy nail growth.

Use a cuticle oil to moisturize and massage the cuticles gently. This helps keep them soft and pliable and reduces the risk of rough or cracked cuticles. Additionally, avoid cutting or pushing the cuticles as this can lead to injury and infection.

Tip 5: Trim Nails Regularly

Trimming your nails regularly is essential for maintaining nail health, especially during pregnancy. Long nails are more prone to breaking and chipping, resulting in painful or infected nails.

Experts recommend trimming your nails straight across and rounding the edges to avoid nail trauma and ingrown nails.

Tip 6: Avoid Nail Biting

Nail biting can lead to a host of nail problems, including infections and deformities. Additionally, nail biting during pregnancy can introduce harmful bacteria into the mouth, which can lead to complications.

Experts recommend avoiding nail biting altogether, trying fidget toys or hand exercises instead. Applying nail polish can also act as a deterrent to nail biting, as the unpleasant taste of the polish discourages the habit.

Tip 7: Use Natural Nail Care Products

During pregnancy, it is essential to use nail care products that are gentle and free of harmful toxins. Some nail polish and removers contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to you and your baby.

Look for natural nail care products that are free of formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. These toxins can cause respiratory problems, nausea, and even birth defects. Natural nail care products are gentle on the nails and cuticles, keeping them healthy and beautiful throughout your pregnancy.

Tip 8: Get Professional Nail Care Services

Professional nail care services can help keep your nails healthy and attractive throughout your pregnancy. Professional manicures and pedicures can help remove dead skin cells, which cause nail discoloration, and promote healthy nail growth.

However, ensure that the salon uses non-toxic nail products and sterilizes their tools to avoid infections and other complications.

Tip 9: Get Medical Attention for Nail Problems

If you experience any nail problems during pregnancy, such as fungal infections or nail discoloration, seek medical attention immediately. Although nail problems are usually harmless, they can be a sign of an underlying health condition.

Additionally, some nail conditions, such as fungal infections, can be harmful to you and your baby if left untreated. A healthcare provider can diagnose and treat your nail problem and provide timely intervention to prevent its progression.

Tip 10: Avoid Synthetic Nails and Acrylics

Synthetic nails and acrylics may look attractive, but they can be harmful to your nail health, especially during pregnancy. Synthetic nails and acrylics can cause trauma to the nail bed, leading to infection and inflammation.

Additionally, the chemicals used to glue the nails have been known to cause respiratory problems and allergies. Therefore, experts recommend avoiding synthetic nails and acrylics altogether.