Is Witch Hazel safe during pregnancy?
Astringent in toners and hemorrhoid pads. ACOG suggests witch hazel pads for pregnancy hemorrhoids.
What the sources say
ACOG suggests applying an ice pack or witch hazel pads to hemorrhoids during pregnancy, noting witch hazel helps relieve pain and swelling. Cleveland Clinic advises telling your care team if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before using witch hazel products, which are for external use only. Toners with witch hazel may also contain alcohol or fragrance that can irritate sensitive pregnancy skin. While breastfeeding: external use only and keep it off the nipple.
Also listed as
hamamelis virginiana, hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) water, hamamelis virginiana bark/leaf extract, hamamelis virginiana leaf extract, hamamelis water, tucks, witch hazel distillate
Sources
- ACOG: What can I do for hemorrhoids during pregnancy?
- Cleveland Clinic: Witch Hazel: How to Use
- AAD: Dermatologist-approved pregnancy skin care
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.