As many women approach the final weeks of pregnancy, feelings of discomfort and anticipation can heighten. While some turn to typical labor-inducing methods like spicy meals, intimacy, or even acupuncture, I found an unconventional solution that surprised me: a bikini wax.
At 39 weeks pregnant, I was in no hurry to meet my baby. I had taken time off work to unwind and prepare for our new arrival. However, I also wanted to look my best for the occasion. With numerous doctors scheduled to visit and plenty of pictures to capture, I decided it was time for some self-care.
The Night Before Labor Began
The evening prior to going into labor, I felt mild contractions, which I initially thought were just Braxton Hicks—nothing to worry about. I managed to sleep through the night without any issues.
The Following Day, 2:30 P.M.: Lash Extensions
The next day, I called my healthcare provider, who confirmed I was likely experiencing “pre-labor” contractions. With my due date just a week away and recognizing that first pregnancies often take longer, I opted to stick to my plan for a day of relaxation and beauty treatments.
My first stop was a lash appointment. I envisioned myself in labor, looking less than glamorous with unkempt hair and no makeup. Getting my lashes done felt like the perfect way to ensure I looked great for the big day. During my appointment, I began to feel more contractions, but they were still mild and sporadic—just Braxton Hicks, I thought. I counted eight of them over the 90 minutes, which felt manageable.
Later That Day, 5 P.M.: The Wax Experience
As I made my way to my first-ever Brazilian wax appointment, I suddenly felt a strong contraction that jolted me in my seat. Yes, it was my first time, and I generally prefer shaving. However, I hadn’t been able to see anything down there for weeks, so waxing it was.
Instead of heading home, I pushed through; my appointment was just three minutes away. I informed the beautician about my situation, and she hesitated, suggesting we might want to reschedule. I insisted on going ahead, thinking I could manage.
As she ripped off the first wax strip, I felt alarms going off in my head. This was more painful than I ever imagined! The waxing continued, and with each painful removal, contractions intensified. After about fifteen minutes, I could hardly walk. I called my husband, who looked at me as if I had lost it. By the time I got home, my contractions were coming every four minutes—definitely a sign it was time to head to the hospital.
The Following Day, 12:24 A.M.: Welcoming My Baby Boy
Once I arrived at the hospital, my contractions escalated quickly, leaving no time to catch my breath. All my breathing exercises vanished from my mind as I clung to the hospital bed, hardly aware of the people around me. My doula attempted to help, but all I could think was, “Where is that epidural?!” When it finally arrived, it felt like a miracle. After seven hours of labor, which is relatively quick for a first-time mom, I welcomed my little one into the world.
Did my Brazilian wax actually induce labor? Who knows, but it certainly didn’t slow things down! I shared my experience with a friend who tried the same thing a few months later, and she also had a speedy delivery. Coincidence? Maybe.
Would I opt for a Brazilian before my next child arrives? Probably not. Honestly, when you’re in the throes of labor, how your body looks is the least of your concerns. And who doesn’t appreciate the beauty of nature, right?
For more insights on home insemination and pregnancy, check out our other posts, like this one on home insemination. If you’re considering options for starting a family, resources like this artificial insemination kit can provide essential information. It’s also helpful to explore what the IVF process is really like at this guide on IVF.
In summary, while traditional methods of inducing labor are common, my unexpected experience with a bikini wax proved to be an unforgettable part of my journey to motherhood.