Dry Lips During Pregnancy
When expecting, pregnant women can often experience a variety of changes happening in their bodies, ranging from nausea and fatigue to mood swings and dry lips. Though it might seem like a small issue compared to the many other changes that can occur, having dry, chapped lips can be a real nuisance when it comes to finding relief and comfort.
Causes of Dry Lips During Pregnancy
The causes of dry lips during pregnancy can include the following:
- Decreased hormone production, combined with changes in blood volume.
- Dietary changes, causing lack of nutrients.
- Dehydration.
- Stress and lack of sleep.
- Exposure to dry, cold air.
- Excessive licking and/or biting of lips.
Symptoms of Dry Lips During Pregnancy
The common symptoms of dry lips during pregnancy include the following:
- Flaky skin or scabs on the lips.
- Itchiness and/or burning sensation on the lips.
- Redness or inflammation around the lips.
- Chapped, cracked lips.
- Slight bleeding.
In some cases, dry lips can become so severe that blisters or sores may appear. This is especially true if the condition is left untreated.
Treatments for Dry Lips During Pregnancy
The best way to treat dry lips during pregnancy is to start by being mindful of your lip-care routine. Here are some tips to start with:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Humidify your living space if it’s dry.
- Consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
- Avoid licking or biting your lips.
- Protect your lips from the sun and wind by wrapping a scarf or hat around them.
- Gently exfoliate with a warm washcloth and pat dry.
- Apply a hypoallergenic lip balm containing natural ingredients every few hours.
- Use a nonirritating facial moisturizer to relieve irritation.
Other treatments may include taking short baths in oatmeal or healing herbs, such as chamomile and lavender.
When to See a Doctor
If your dry lips don’t improve after taking the proper steps, it’s best to consult a doctor. Additionally, if you experience any other symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or fever, you should also seek medical attention.
Dry lips during pregnancy are not uncommon, and can generally be managed by taking proper precaution and following the advice above. However, if it persists, it is best to consult a doctor to determine the cause and best course of action.
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Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
