Pregnancy-related skin changes
Pregnancy can bring about a multitude of changes to a woman's body, including her skin. Here's a guide to some common skin changes expectant mothers may encounter and strategies for managing them safely.
One of the most frequent skin changes during pregnancy is the appearance of stretch marks. As the abdomen and other areas grow, the skin stretches, leading to these distinctive marks. Initially, they have a reddish-purple appearance but fade to silver or white over time, although they never completely resolve.
Another common skin change is acne. The increased production of androgen and progesterone hormones can lead to more sebum production and clogged pores, resulting in breakouts. General hygiene practices, such as washing the face with lukewarm water, using a mild cleanser twice daily, and avoiding picking at pimples, are essential in managing acne. However, it's crucial to consult a doctor before using medicated acne products to ensure their safety during pregnancy.
Melasma, or the "mask of pregnancy," is a skin condition characterised by tan to brown pigmented patches on the face. This condition is caused by increased estrogen and progesterone stimulating melanin production, especially with sun exposure. To minimise sun-induced pigmentation, it's advisable to regularly apply broad-spectrum sunscreen and limit sun exposure between 10 am and 2 pm.
Varicose veins and spider veins are also common during pregnancy. These are enlarged veins that can occur on the legs, vulva, vagina, rectum, face, neck, and arms. They are caused by increased weight and uterine pressure. To keep the effects of varicose veins to a minimum and relieve symptoms, it's recommended to limit periods of sitting and standing, uncross the legs when sitting for long periods, elevate your legs when possible, exercise often, use support hose, and avoid constipation with exercise and fluids.
Other less common skin conditions during pregnancy include prurigo of pregnancy, pemphigoid gestationis, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). Pemphigoid gestationis is an autoimmune disorder that typically occurs during the second or third trimester, causing blisters on the abdomen or other parts of the body, and slightly increasing the risk of preterm birth or a baby with low birth weight. ICP is a pregnancy-induced liver condition that becomes obvious in the third trimester, with severe itching mostly affecting the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or trunk of the body, and increases the risk of preterm labor and fetal death.
In managing skin conditions during pregnancy, it's essential to prioritise gentle skincare products, sun protection, good nutrition, and consult healthcare providers before starting any medicated treatments to ensure safety for both mother and baby. Over-the-counter products containing topical benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, azelaic acid, or glycolic acid are generally safe to use during pregnancy.
Other skin changes during pregnancy can include blotchy or darkened skin, linea nigra, angiomas, rashes, and eczema. For these conditions, it's advisable to use fragrance-free, gentle moisturizers, avoid irritants such as harsh soaps or detergents, wear soft, breathable cotton clothing, apply cool compresses for itching relief, and seek medical advice if necessary.
In conclusion, pregnancy can cause various skin changes, but with the right care and advice, these changes can be managed safely and effectively. Consulting a healthcare provider and a dermatologist is crucial in understanding the best strategies for maintaining healthy skin during pregnancy.
- The development of varicose veins is a common medical-condition in pregnancy, often appearing on the legs, but they can also appear on the face, neck, arms, and other areas due to increased weight and uterine pressure.
- Skin-condition like pemphigoid gestationis, an autoimmune disorder, can occur during the second or third trimester, causing blisters on various parts of the body and slightly increasing the risk of preterm birth or a baby with low birth weight.
- Pharmaceutical company Pfizer, through science, has contributed to the development of treatments for various health-and-wellness conditions, including medications that may help manage some of the skin changes expectant mothers may experience during pregnancy.
- Acne, caused by increased production of androgen and progesterone hormones, is a common skin change during pregnancy. While general hygiene practices can help manage acne, it's important to consult a doctor before using medicated acne products to ensure their safety during pregnancy.
