Ladies:
I think this falls under the category of "things about pregnancy which no one tells you about." I am now at 20 weeks with my first. I've just started to show (people are volunteering their seats on the subway). It seems though that initially, I was putting on weight on my thighs and bottom, more than on my belly.
Its gotten warm in the city, and after a day out visiting a friend at their country house, I came home all chafed and raw along my bottom, between my thighs and below the "girls". Before the pregnancy, I was both petite and curvy 5'1" 115 lbs and a size 32 DD, so chafing is new to me.
Any recommendations for chafing relief?
hubby suggested vaseline, but I think it would cause grease marks on my clothes. I also think that the raw bits need to breathe, so vaseline would just get in the way.
"What to Expect" and the "Mayo Clinic" guide recommend corn starch and loose breathable clothing. Seems like a good start, but not a strong enough fix.
Have any of you tried products meant for runners or for the plus size set? I'm thinking body glide, or lanacane anti-chafing gel? are these products safe, worthwhile?
Are there others which you would suggest?
Are there any crossover products that I should consider, i.e. things which are geared for babies but are really good for expectant mommas?
Thanks in advance for all your helpful tips and suggestions.
Protecting the area with fabric that breathes and glides (bike shorts, or a good sports bra and cami will help. If you can prevent skin from rubbing against skin, you will be better off than trying to put ointments and powers on to prevent it (they wear down and sweat off.) Air is your best friend! I have used a hair dryer on low to dry out the tender bits fast, it is helpful too!
Good luck with your pregnancy!
M.
I agree with the hair dryer. Also, a little deodorant will help to keep you from sweating too much - you can use it anywhere. And definitely corn starch baby powder (not talc). Good luck!! And feel better.
Spandex. Without a doubt, this is the very best anti-chafing barrier you can find.
I've been in the military for 10 years. When we're going to be marching for long periods of time, we wear spandex shorts under our combat uniforms. This is especially helpful in the heat.
If spandex is too tight or uncomfortable for you, my next recommendation is pantyhose or tights. They do, luckily, happen to make maternity hose, so you'll be able to get them when you get a bit bigger
Until your currently chafed skin is healed, I suggest that you Aveeno body wash in the shower (the sensitive skin variety has no perfume and is fantastically moisturizing), then dry by patting your skin gently, allow to air-dry, and use a corn-starch based powder prior to putting on your spandex or hose.
Also, don't forget to drink PLENTY of water! It's warm outsider and so very easy for a pregnant woman to dehydrate.
Be well!
C
Monistate makes a chaffing gel made for specifically for women, it may be worth trying.
My husband had to use some anti-chafing products when training for a 1/2 marathon and had decent things to say about them.
Carn starch is probably what your physician would recommend with consistent application - you may even try a medicated powder to help prevent an infection in the areas that are currently aggravated until they heal.
My only other recommendation would be to wear clothes that provide enough of a barrier to prevent the chafing. For instance, I can't wear shorts when I run because they ride-up, so I choose to wear spandex shorts/capris that prevent my thighs from rubbing. From all my gymnastics days, I'm convinced Spandex may be a Godsend.
Good luck.
"The Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy" and Jenny McCarthy's "Belly Laughs" were two books I read when expecting my first that really seemed to have honest information about what it's really like to be pregnant.
All good suggestions.. Also at night, sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees to allow air on your thighs at night or during naps.
I used to put diaper rash medicine on my daughter after water park visits. It dot on her clothes, but washed off..
100% without a doubt.......this stuff works WONDERS!!!! Check out their website. You can buy it at most any drugstore or Walmart type store. Even at Tractor Supply. LOL I know it looks goofy, but it's great stuff!!! We are going to the beach soon and I will be packing it b/c it works great for little boys who are going to be in the sand, if ya know what I mean! =0)
