Dry Lips In Pregnancy: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

Many women during their pregnancy felt that their lips got dry and rough. If you are also one of them, don’t worry, it’s not a big problem. You may think that these changes are due to pregnancy or side effects of some medications you used during pregnancy.

Dry lips in pregnancy are common due to hormonal changes, dehydration, nutritional and due to electrolytes disturbances. Let’s look at causes, safe remedies, and prevention tips for smooth and healthy lips.

Why do pregnant women get dry lips?

Pregnancy causes various changes in a woman’s physique. From hormonal variations to nutritional requirements, everything changes to support the growing baby. These changes frequently cause dryness and dehydration, which immediately impact the lips.

·       Hormonal Changes:

During pregnancy, the increase in estrogen and progesterone has an impact on skin moisture levels. These hormones reduce oil production and occasionally cause dry lips in pregnancy

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·       Breathing Changes:

During pregnancy, some women experience shortness of breath or congestion of the nose, which causes them to breathe more frequently through their mouth. Lips get dry when inhaling through the mouth

·       Nutritional Deficiencies:

Vitamin B2, iron, or essential fatty acid deficiency can cause dryness and cracking around the mouth. 

·       Dehydration:

To support the growing baby and the increased blood volume, pregnant women require extra water. Insufficient fluid intake can lead to dehydration, which manifests as dry lips and eye twitching.

·       Environmental Factors:

The weather has an impact as well. During pregnancy, cold, dry air or too much sun exposure may lead to dry lips

When do pregnancy lips happen

Pregnancy lips (dry lips) happen in different stages of pregnancy. Some experience it in the first trimester and others in the second and third. Dryness and chapping due to dehydration, morning sickness, and increased fluid loss occur in the first trimester. While swelling is commonly seen in the second trimester. Plumper lips are seen in the third semester.

Common Symptoms of Dry Lips During Pregnancy

You may feel these symptoms due to dry lips in pregnancy :

•       Cracks in the corners of the mouth
•       Intolerance for salty or spicy foods
•       Intense pain if neglected
•       Chronic flakiness and dryness
•       Irritation or redness around the lips 

Treatments for Dry Lips in Pregnancy

Priority one should always be safety when managing pregnancy complaints. The following safe and gentle methods can be used to treat dry lips in pregnancy:

• Make sure to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water every day.  
• Fresh juices, coconut water, and herbal teas might also be beneficial. 
•   Use all-natural, fragrance-free balms that contain beeswax, coconut oil, or shea butter.
• Products containing salicylic acid or retinol should be avoided since they may not be safe to use while pregnant.

  

• Use a homemade scrub prepared with sugar and honey, not more than two times a week. This eliminates dead skin without the use of harsh chemicals.
• To avoid dryness from indoor heating or cooling, use a humidifier in your bedroom.
• Consume foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts, flaxseeds, and salmon, if your doctor has given the all-clear.
• To improve skin health, use fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamins.
• Don’t lick your lips.

Tips for Keeping Your Lips Smooth and Healthy

 Prevention is just as important to pregnancy care as therapy:

• Consult your healthcare professional for a healthy prenatal diet.
• Use a scarf or cap to protect your lips during extreme weather.
• Always carry a lip balm with you.
• Consistently consume fluids throughout the day.
• Use gentle, natural skincare products.

Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Mostly, dry lips in pregnancy are harmless, but you must consult your doctor if you experience these signs:

•     When the cracks in the corners of your lips become uncomfortable, inflamed, or infected.
•     When the chronic dryness does not improve with home cures.
•     When you see other symptoms, such as lightheadedness, intense thirst, and black urine, which are indicators of severe dehydration.

Anemia, gestational diabetes, and vitamin deficiencies are some underlying problems that might be associated with prolonged lip dryness and need medical care. If you experience any of these long-term symptoms, quickly consult your doctor for medical advice

Conclusion

Pregnancy-related dry lips are normal and typically not cause for concern. You can maintain smooth and healthy lips with easy changes like drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, and utilizing natural lip care products. Prioritize safe solutions at all times, and if symptoms don’t go away, see your doctor. Your pregnancy experience will go more smoothly and be more pleasurable if minor discomforts like dry lips are taken care of. 

 FAQs

Are dry lips a normal symptom in pregnancy?

Yes, dry lips in pregnancy are normal. It is due to hormonal changes, dehydration, and nutritional deficiencies. By maintaining hydration and natural lip balms, we can prevent pregnancy lips.

Which lip balms are safe to use during pregnancy?

Lip balms that consist of coconut oil, butter, and petroleum jelly are safe to use. Avoid highly synthetic balms that contain salicylic acid, etc.

Are dry lips a sign of pregnancy implantation?

No dry lips are not a definite sign of pregnancy implantation. Implantation bleeding, mild cramping and breast tenderness are signs of pregnancy implantation.