In this article:
Causes of Nail Changes During Pregnancy
Your nails can go through some interesting changes when you’re expecting, and it’s all because of the hormones surging through your body. The rise in oestrogen and other pregnancy hormones helps your baby grow, but they also impact your nails, hair, and skin.These hormonal shifts can make your nails grow faster, sometimes starting around week 20 of pregnancy. But for some people, these same hormones can cause nails to become brittle, weak, or even develop unusual textures.
Every pregnancy is unique, so while some of you might love your new, speedy nail growth in pregnancy, others might notice more challenges like splitting or ridging.
Common Nail Changes During Pregnancy
Your nails can change in many ways during pregnancy, and each woman experiences it differently:- Faster growth: Your nails might grow quicker than usual.
- Stronger or thicker nails: Some people find that their nails become harder and stronger.
- Brittleness or splitting: Nails can become weak, tearing or breaking more easily.
- Ridges or grooves: You might notice small lines or dents forming on your nails.
- White lines or dots (Leukonychia): These are harmless but can appear due to hormonal changes.
- Onycholysis: This is when the nail starts to lift or separate from the nail bed, sometimes with discolouration.
- Ingrown nails: Nails might grow into the skin and cause discomfort (especially on your toes).
- Thickening or discolouration: Nails might change in texture or colour.
Could Weak, Brittle Nails Mean You’re Pregnant?
Weak or brittle nails aren’t a definitive sign of pregnancy, but they’re something many expectant parents experience. If your nails are splitting, tearing, or breaking more than usual, it could be due to those hormonal changes.But there’s another possible factor: a lack of certain nutrients in your diet. For example, low levels of biotin (a B-complex vitamin) can weaken nail growth in pregnancy. Biotin helps improve nail strength, hardness, and thickness, and it’s also great for your hair and skin. You can increase your biotin intake by eating foods like:
- Nuts
- Eggs
- Oatmeal
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Bananas
- Whole grains
However, if you’re not pregnant and don’t plan to be, don’t take prenatal vitamins just for your nails. They’re meant for pregnancy and breastfeeding, and using them otherwise could lead to too much of certain nutrients, which might be harmful.
Caring for Your Nails During Pregnancy
Taking care of your nails can help keep them strong and healthy. These are some of the tips to protect your nails:- Avoid biting or picking: If you have a habit of biting your nails or picking at your cuticles, now’s the time to stop.
- Keep nails clean and dry: Water can soften nails and make them more likely to break. Dry your hands thoroughly after washing.
- Go for short nails: Shorter nails are less likely to snag or split, so keep them trimmed.
- Moisturise regularly: Apply a good hand cream or nourishing oil (like vitamin E or coconut oil) to your nails and cuticles every night to keep them hydrated.
- Wear gloves: Protect your hands with rubber gloves when washing dishes or using household cleaners to shield your nails from harsh chemicals.
- Push back cuticles gently: Gently push your cuticles back to avoid infections and keep nails strong.
- File properly: File your nails in one direction (not back and forth) and keep the tips rounded to prevent snags.
- Watch for infections: Check for any green discolouration if you have artificial nails. It’s best to stick to natural nails during pregnancy.
Unsafe Nail Treatments During Pregnancy
Getting a manicure or pedicure during pregnancy is generally safe, but there are some precautions to keep in mind to protect yourself and your baby. Here's what to avoid:- Solvent-based products: Skip nail polishes, acrylic nails, or removers containing formaldehyde, toluene, or acetone.
- Phthalates: Avoid nail or hand products with phthalates, as they may disrupt your endocrine system.
- Strong-smelling treatments: Acrylic and gel nail treatments often have a strong odour, which might irritate you or increase infection risk.
- Poor ventilation: Whether at a salon or doing your nails at home, make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.
Is It Safe to Work as a Nail Technician During Pregnancy?
If you’re a nail technician and just discovered you’re pregnant, you might be wondering if it’s safe to keep working with acrylic nails or other treatments. It's important for you to know that strong-smelling chemicals used in acrylics could be risky, especially during your first trimester. To stay safe:- Check with your doctor for personalised advice.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and UV light.
- Work in a well-ventilated area and take regular breaks to get fresh air.
- Consider reducing exposure to harsh chemicals by using non-toxic products where possible.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on How Hormones Change Nail Growth During Pregnancy
- Why do nails grow so fast during pregnancy?
Nails often grow faster in pregnancy due to increased blood circulation and hormone changes. Extra nutrients also support quicker nail growth. - Why are my nails brittle during pregnancy?
Brittle nails in pregnancy can happen from hormonal shifts and nutrient deficiencies. They may also become weaker if you are dehydrated.
