Noah Sinclair
Pregnancy causes many changes to a woman's body, and one of the lesser-known changes is that it can affect the growth and health of nails. Some women report that their nails grow faster and stronger during pregnancy, while others find that their nails become more brittle and weak. These changes are caused by a surge in hormones, specifically an increase in estrogen, which can also cause changes in hair and skin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail growth | Faster, stronger, harder |
| Nail brittleness | Common |
| Nail weakness | Common |
| Nail changes | Onycholysis, leukonychia, white lines or dots, groove formation, splitting, ingrown nails, detachment |
| Nail care | Keep nails short, gently file and trim nails regularly, massage nourishing oil into nails and cuticles, use hand moisturizer, wear rubber gloves when doing dishes or cleaning |
| Nail supplements | Prenatal vitamins, collagen, multivitamins, calcium, biotin |
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What You'll Learn
Hormonal changes can cause faster nail growth
While some sources claim that hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause faster nail growth, others dispute this. According to a study, the majority of pregnant women reported no changes in nail growth, thickness, or brittleness during their pregnancies. However, some women do experience faster nail growth during pregnancy, which is believed to be caused by an increase in hormones, specifically androgens and estrogen.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can prolong the growth phase of hair and nails, resulting in thicker hair and faster nail growth. This surge in hormones can also lead to changes in the skin, such as stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and dark patches. It is important to note that not all women will experience the same nail changes during pregnancy, and some may find that their nails become more brittle or weak instead.
To maintain nail health during pregnancy, it is recommended to protect nails by wearing gloves while doing tasks that involve water or chemicals, such as washing dishes or cleaning. Proper nutrition, including a diet rich in calcium, biotin, and protein, can also help strengthen nails and prevent breakage. Additionally, using hand moisturizer and nail-specific moisturizers can improve nail health.
Some women may also choose to take prenatal vitamins or supplements, such as iron and folic acid, to support their overall health during pregnancy. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as there may be potential risks associated with certain chemicals or compounds during pregnancy. It is also recommended to gently file and trim nails regularly to prevent snags and maintain a neat appearance.
While faster nail growth can be a positive side effect of pregnancy for some women, it is important to prioritize nail care and overall health to ensure strong and healthy nails throughout this period.
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Nails may become brittle and weak
While some women experience thicker hair and longer nails during pregnancy, others may find that their nails become more brittle and weak. Nails may become thinner, develop white spots, yellowing, or other discolourations, and grow more slowly. They may also be accompanied by discomfort or sensitivity in the nail beds.
There are several reasons why nails may become brittle and weak during pregnancy. One reason could be hormonal fluctuations, which can cause nails to grow faster but also become more brittle. Additionally, nutrient imbalances or a lack of certain nutrients, such as biotin or iron, can contribute to nail brittleness. Dehydration is another factor, as insufficient water intake may lead to nail brittleness. Stress and fatigue during pregnancy can also weaken the body and affect nail health.
Certain prenatal vitamins may also play a role in nail brittleness if they contain high doses of iron that are not well-tolerated by the individual. Environmental factors, such as exposure to harsh chemicals, excessive use of nail polish removers, or frequent handwashing without moisturising, can further exacerbate nail issues.
To address brittle and weak nails during pregnancy, it is recommended to maintain a balanced diet, stay well-hydrated, and manage stress through practices like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation. Wearing gloves while doing chores or household tasks can also protect nails from harsh chemicals and excessive water exposure. Additionally, regular moisturisation with hand cream or nail oil can help keep nails and cuticles hydrated and prevent dryness and brittleness.
While nail changes during pregnancy are normal, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare provider if nail problems persist or worsen. They can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatments or supplements to promote healthier nails during pregnancy.
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Leukonychia and onychocryptosis are common
During pregnancy, women often experience changes in their hair and nails. While many women experience thicker hair, stronger nails, and faster nail growth, others may experience nail woes, including white lines or dots (leukonychia), splitting, brittleness, ingrown nails, and detachment. Leukonychia and onychocryptosis are common and benign findings during pregnancy.
Leukonychia refers to white lines or dots on the nails. It was the most common nail change observed in pregnant women, with a prevalence of 13.7% in one study and 24.4% in another. The pathophysiology of leukonychia in pregnancy has not been studied, but it has been hypothesized that elevated estrogen levels may increase blood flow in the nail matrix with keratohyaline granule retention (true leukonychia). Edema may also increase pressure on the nail bed vasculature, resulting in apparent leukonychia.
Onychocryptosis, or ingrown nails, was the second most frequent nail change reported in pregnant women, affecting 9.0% of pregnant women in one study. Onycholysis, or the separation of the nail from the nail bed, is another common nail change during pregnancy.
It is important to note that nail changes during pregnancy are typically benign, but if you have any concerns, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that while some women experience stronger nails during pregnancy, others may find that their nails become more brittle. This can be due to a lack of biotin in the diet, as biotin is a B-complex vitamin that can improve nail firmness, hardness, and thickness.
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Nails may be harder and stronger
Pregnancy causes many changes to the body, and one of the lesser-known changes is observed in the nails. While some women experience faster nail growth, others may find their nails becoming more brittle and weak. These changes are caused by a surge in hormones called oestrogen, which is completely normal and is the body's way of helping grow the baby.
Not all women experience nail growth during pregnancy. Some women may find that their nails become harder and stronger than ever before. This is a welcome side effect of pregnancy for those who previously had thin and stubby nails. The nails may also become thicker and lustrous.
The strengthening of nails during pregnancy can be attributed to the increase in hormones, particularly oestrogen. This hormonal change can make nails grow faster and stronger. However, it is important to note that not all women will experience the same nail changes during pregnancy, and some may find that their nails become more brittle or weak instead.
To maintain nail health during pregnancy, it is recommended to protect the nails by wearing gloves while doing tasks like washing dishes or cleaning. Proper nutrition and moisturising can also help reduce breakage. Using a nail file can help prevent snags, and massaging a nourishing oil, such as vitamin E or coconut oil, into the nails and cuticles can keep them strong and hydrated. Keeping the nails short and clean can also help prevent breakage and maintain their strength.
While nail changes during pregnancy are mostly harmless, brittle nails can sometimes indicate an iron deficiency. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your nail health during pregnancy.
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Protect nails with gloves and moisturiser
Pregnancy hormones can cause your nails to grow longer and stronger. However, you may also experience nail woes, including white lines or dots (leukonychia), splitting, brittleness, ingrown nails, and detachment.
To protect your nails during pregnancy, it is recommended to wear rubber gloves when doing chores such as the dishes or cleaning. This will protect your nails from harsh chemicals and keep them from becoming brittle. Additionally, using a moisturiser on your hands, especially the skin surrounding the nail and on the nails themselves, can help keep them healthy and strong.
If you plan to get your nails done at a salon, be cautious about the cleanliness and ventilation of the establishment. While your immune system is compromised during pregnancy, infections, especially fungal infections, and chemical exposure can be more dangerous. Choose a well-ventilated salon or one with an open window or door to prevent inhaling fumes. If you are concerned about UV exposure, ask the salon to air-dry your polish instead of using curing lights, or wear fingerless UV-protective gloves.
When choosing nail polish, opt for brands that don't contain dibutyl phthalate, toluene, or formaldehyde. While traditional nail polish is considered safe during pregnancy, it is recommended to avoid gel polishes and manicures as the effects of gel manicures during pregnancy have not been widely studied. If you are removing gel nails yourself, start by applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the cuticle and the area around your nail to protect your skin from acetone.
To promote nail health from within, ensure you are getting enough biotin from your diet. Biotin is a B-complex vitamin that improves nail firmness, hardness, and thickness. Foods rich in biotin include nuts, eggs, oatmeal, spinach, broccoli, bananas, and whole grains.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is common for nails to grow during pregnancy, and they may even be stronger and grow faster than ever before. However, some women experience the opposite, finding that their nails become more brittle and weak.
Nail growth during pregnancy is caused by an increase in hormones, particularly oestrogen, which prolongs the growth phase.
To care for your nails during pregnancy, you can gently file and trim them regularly to prevent snags. You can also massage nourishing oils, such as vitamin E or coconut oil, into your nails and cuticles to keep them strong and hydrated. Additionally, wearing rubber gloves when doing the dishes or cleaning can help protect your nails, and using a moisturiser on your hands and nails can help reduce breakage.
