Celebrating Holi During Pregnancy- Safety Tips for Pregnant Women

Holi is a festival of joy and celebration with its colourful gulals, Water Pichkari, groovy music, and delicious sweets. However, if you're pregnant, you might find yourself worrying about how to enjoy it while prioritising your safety and that of your baby. This may lead you to ponder, 'Is it safe to celebrate Holi during pregnancy?'

Good news: Yes, you can safely celebrate Holi during pregnancy, but it requires careful planning and precautions.

Health and Safety Tips for Pregnant Women During Holi

Here are essential health and safety tips for pregnant women to ensure your and your baby's safety.

Planning Ahead

• Follow Pre-Holi Skin and Hair Care: Apply a generous layer of oil, such as coconut or olive oil, on your skin and hair to reduce the risk of damage and make it easier to remove colours afterwards. Read our detailed section below on Holi Skin and Hair Care tips during pregnancy.
• Choose Flower Petals and Natural Colors: Use organic, natural colours from dried flowers and edible ingredients like haldi. Get the colours ready in advance.

Staying Comfortable

• Dress Appropriately: Comfort is critical during pregnancy. For holi, wear comfortable and protective clothes such as long-sleeved tops and full-length bottoms to minimise skin exposure to colours. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you may be standing or walking for extended periods.
• Stay Hydrated: Stay well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water, fresh juices, or coconut water. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
• Eat Healthy Snacks: Choose healthy, nutritious, pregnancy-friendly snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.
• Limit Physical Activity and take breaks: Enjoy the festivities without overexerting yourself. Sit down and rest when you need to. Remember, taking care of yourself is your top priority.

Safety Tips

• Avoid large gatherings and crowded Areas: Try to celebrate with close family and friends rather than in large, crowded or outdoor gatherings to reduce the risk of falls or accidental bumps.
• Avoid playing with water and slippery areas: Don't stay in wet clothes long to prevent cold catching. Also, playing with water is risky-you may slip and fall.
• Have a Safety Plan: Make sure your phone is fully charged and you have the contact information for your doctor or hospital.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid synthetic or Chemical Colors
• Avoid overexertion
• Stay Away from Water Balloons and forceful water guns
• Stay away from crowds and slippery areas
• Avoid alcohol and bhang
• Minimise sun exposure
• Limit Exposure to Loud Music

Embracing the Joy

• Focus on the Experience: Enjoy the music and the colours, and spend time with loved ones. Take photos, make memories, and enjoy pregnancy-safe festival foods.
• Connect with Other Moms: Staying with other pregnant women can provide you with support and company during the festivities.
• Host a Small Get-together: Organise a small, intimate gathering with close family and friends to celebrate.
• Designated support person: having a designated support person by your side is essential, especially during the second or third trimester. This individual could be a friend, cousin, partner, or anyone you trust who knows about your pregnancy.

Consult Your Doctor: Before planning to participate in Holi celebrations, always consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have any pregnancy-related health concerns.

Holi Skin and Hair Care Tips for Pregnant Women

How can pregnant women protect their skin before Holi?

To protect their skin before Holi, apply a layer of oil or moisturiser, wear protective clothes, and choose natural, safe colours. Here are some tips-

• Apply Oil or Moisturizer- Generously apply coconut oil, olive oil, or a thick moisturiser to your skin. It will keep your skin hydrated and make removing the colours easier after playing Holi.
• Use Sunscreen- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from sun damage. Let it absorb into your skin for at least 20 minutes before stepping out.
• Lip Protection- Apply a generous layer of petroleum jelly or any thick lip balm to your lips to protect them from colours and moisturise them.
• Nail Care: Apply a transparent nail polish to your fingernails and toenails to prevent them from absorbing Holi colours. You can also apply some oil around your cuticles for added protection.
• Use a Gentle Cleanser: After playing Holi, use a mild, chemical-free cleanser to remove the colours. Harsh soaps can strip moisture from your skin, which is not ideal during pregnancy.
• Wear sunglasses- to protect your eyes from harmful colours and direct sunlight.

how to remove holi colour from skin during pregnancy

Removing Holi colours from the skin during pregnancy can be a bit more sensitive due to the potential for skin changes and sensitivities that can occur during this time. It's essential to use gentle, non-toxic methods to avoid adverse effects. Here are some tips:

• rinse your skin thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water and try to Avoid hot water/
• Cleanse your skin with a Mild Cleanser or a homemade pack made from ingredients like gram flour (besan), yoghurt, and turmeric.
• Moisturise to soothe and hydrate your skin.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and bleaching agents that promise to remove colours quickly. These can be very harmful, especially during pregnancy.

If you experience any irritation or discomfort while trying to remove the colours, it's best to stop and consult a dermatologist for advice tailored to your skin's needs.

How to protect hair from holi colours?

To prepare your hair before Holi, follow these steps to protect it from damage and ensure easy removal of colours:

• Oil Your Hair: Thoroughly apply coconut, olive, or almond oil to your hair and scalp. The oil forms a protective layer, making it easier to wash off the colours later.
• Tie Your Hair Up: If you have long hair, consider tying it or braiding it. It reduces the surface area exposed to colours and makes it easier to manage.
• Use a Scarf or Cap: Covering your hair with a scarf, bandana, or cap can further protect it from direct contact with colours and dust.
• Condition Well: Applying a leave-in conditioner or serum can add an extra layer of protection for your hair strands.
• Pre-Holi Haircare Routine: A week before Holi, start a haircare routine that involves deep conditioning and regular oiling to ensure your hair is strong and well-nourished, which can help mitigate potential damage from Holi colours.

These precautions help shield your hair from the drying and damaging effects of Holi colours, making post-festival cleanup easier and preventing long-term damage.

how to remove holi colour from hair

• rinse your hair thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water before applying shampoo.
• Use a Mild Shampoo to cleanse your hair gently. If required, shampoo twice to get all the colour out.
• Use a hydrating conditioner
• Do not use heat styling tools immediately after removing Holi colours
• Avoid using Harsh Chemical Treatments such as colouring or perming your hair shortly after Holi.

Remember, your hair might be more sensitive during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, so it's crucial to be gentle and patient while removing Holi colours. If you encounter any persistent issues or scalp irritations, consult your doctor.

Holi Celebrations Across Pregnancy Stages

Celebrating Holi during pregnancy brings its own set of joys and challenges, varying across the different trimesters.

Holi Celebrations In the first trimester

The first trimester, between conception and week 12 of pregnancy, is crucial for the development of the fetus. You might not have disclosed your pregnancy to everyone, so try to think of an excuse to get out of the situation beforehand. Synthetic colours should be avoided, as they could harm the developing baby. Wear protective clothing for maximum coverage and comfortable, non-slip shoes.

Holi Celebrations In the second trimester

The second trimester includes weeks 13 through 27 of a pregnancy. For many pregnant women, it's the safest and most enjoyable period to engage in mild festivities, thanks to easing early pregnancy symptoms and the lower risk of complications compared to the first trimester. However, it remains essential to use natural colours and follow pregnancy precautions. Wearing long-sleeved clothing and applying oil to the skin can help in the easy removal of colours. Staying hydrated, avoiding crowded places, and listening to one's body is crucial to ensuring a pleasant Holi experience during the second trimester.

Holi Celebrations In the third trimester

The third trimester includes weeks 28 through 40 of a pregnancy. Both physically and emotionally challenging for a pregnant woman. The physical changes and increased size at this stage can affect balance and mobility, making falls a significant concern. It is essential to prioritise comfort and safety. Opting for a quiet celebration at home with organic, safe colours and avoiding strenuous activities can help manage the risks. The emphasis should be on enjoying the spirit of Holi in a more relaxed manner, with an understanding that the health and safety of both the mother and the unborn child come first. Celebrating Holi during this time can still be a joyous occasion, provided it is approached with care, mindfulness, and the support of loved ones.

Each trimester presents unique considerations for celebrating Holi during pregnancy. Still, with the proper precautions and a focus on safety, it can be a memorable and joyful experience for expectant mothers.