Facts Before You Relax
By Wilma Ann Anderson

I have four kids and I didn't relax my hair throughout any of my pregnancies. Some people accused me of being too "scary" while others applauded my decision to be as safe as possible. Women I've spoken with on this subject are divided--just as divided as medical professionals.

Studies have not concluded that there is a health risk associated with the use of relaxers (or any other common chemical hair service), but neither have they concretely concluded that there is not.

Increased hormonal activity in some women has actually prevented the relaxer from "taking" so they are left to entertain other options, the most popular one being wearing braided hair styles.

For those women who simply do not want to wear braids, straw sets or (dare I say it) wigs are another option.

Others take the opportunity to "go natural." It is important to note that special attention needs to be paid to your hair no matter what route you take. During pregnancy your body is changing and the hair on it may be changing as well. Many women report increased breakage, faster growth, strands coming out at the roots, increased thickness, decreased thickness--it all depends on the person.

Chemical absorbtion into the scalp is possible with relaxers as absorption is likely with any product you use on your skin. The ultimate choice is up to you. Your doctor might say, don't do it. Your girlfriend's doctor may say it's fine. Healthy babies have been born to "relaxed" and "unrelaxed" women alike.

Whatever you decide, first feel free to ask your OB/GYN, who may have the most up-to-date medical information. It's your body, your baby, but I tend to opt for prevention; it is better than cure.

Wilma Ann Anderson is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-founder of Mahogany Baby. She's also an accomplished singer, and works as a model and film executive. This mother of four has freelanced for ESSENCE and Working Mother magazines, enjoys crafting, and is based in New Jersey.