Skin Problems During Pregnancy

Skin problems during pregnancy can generally be divided into three groups: hormone-related, preexisting, and pregnancy-specific. Normal hormonal changes may lead to benign skin conditions such as striae gravidarum, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, hair, nail and vascular changes. Preexisting skin conditions (e.g., atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infections, cutaneous tumors) may change during pregnancy.

Pruritic urticarial plaques and prurigo of pregnancies, prurigo and intrahepatic cholesterol of pregnancy are all possible pregnancy-specific skin conditions. These conditions are most common. Most skin conditions during pregnancy can be treated postpartum. There are however specific treatments available for certain conditions, such as melasma and intrahepatic cholesterol of pregnancy, impetigo cholestasis, pruritic folculitis of pregnancy, and impetigo herpetiformis. Patients with intrahepatic-cholestasis, impetigo mypetiformis and pemphigoid pregnancyis should be monitored during pregnancy.

Acne

Even if your skin is normally clear, it’s possible to get breakouts during pregnancy. These breakouts can be attributed to pregnancy hormones. Avoid picking at your skin as this can lead to scarring. You can find many acne treatments over-the-counter. Some prescription medications for acne are not safe to be used while you are pregnant. Before you start any treatment, talk to your doctor.

Stretch Marks: One of the common skin problems during pregnancy

These streaks can appear on your belly, thighs and breasts as your baby bump grows. These streaks can appear as your skin changes and hormones change. They can be found in up to 90% of women by the third trimester. However, they are more common in women who have had them before you. Although skin creams can help reduce itching, they cannot prevent them. Don’t worry, most stretch marks will fade and become pale over time.

Melasma During Pregnancy

Hyperpigmentation can be seen in melasma, also known as chloasma. This condition is characterised by brown or tan patches most often on the face. Melasma is a condition that can be caused by pregnancy. It’s often called “mask of pregnancies” and can affect women as well as men. Melasma often disappears after pregnancy. You can also treat it with prescription creams, such as hydroquinone. Limit your sun exposure if you have melasma. Sunlight can worsen your condition so make sure you use sunscreen with a minimum of 30 SPF. Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide work best. However, sunscreens with Parsol 1789 and avobenzone will provide some protection.

Skin Tags Problems During Pregnancy

These small, flesh-colored, tiny growths are more common in pregnancy than ever before. They are most common in the folds of your body, such as your armpits and neck. They are usually harmless and don’t require treatment. If they are bothersome, your doctor can help you get rid of them. However, you should not attempt to remove them yourself.

Hyperpigmentation

You may notice darker spots, such as scars or freckles on the skin around your nose and mouth, which can sometimes become larger. The linea nigra is a line that runs down the middle of your stomach. This is more common if your skin tone is darker. Avoid the sun and inform your doctor if you notice any changes in your skin.

PUPPP

Itchy, tiny bumps that appear on the belly are called PUPPP. It can appear in large areas on your breasts, thighs, and buttocks. It is not known what causes it. However, it is more common in first pregnancies as well as for mothers with multiple children, such twins or triplets. It doesn’t have a cure, but there are antihistamines and steroid creams that can be used to ease the itching. After giving birth, it should disappear.

Psoriasis

This skin condition is not caused by pregnancy. However, if you have it already, the red, scaly patches may get worse. Some women find that their condition improves while having babies. You should make sure your baby is safe from any treatment you are using for your psoriasis.

Eczema

These red, crusty, itchy spots can occur in many women while pregnant. If you have eczema already, it can worsen over the next nine months. It is best to avoid things that can trigger it. This could include soaps, pet dander, certain foods, and stress. Steroids can be used to treat the problem, but you should consult your doctor first to ensure that your treatment is safe for your baby.

Varicose Veins and Spider Veins

The estrogen and blood levels in pregnant women are higher than normal, which can affect veins. You may notice small, reddish-colored veins on your arms, neck, and face. These veins are harmless and will disappear after your baby is born. Your lower half can become enlarged by pressure from your uterus. These are called varicose veins and can cause pain. To treat varicose veins, your doctor might suggest that you go for a walk, raise your legs, and wear compression hose, which are tight stockings.

Take care of your skin during pregnancy

Focus on the basics to maintain healthy skin during pregnancy. Get plenty of water. Use sunscreen all day and avoid the sun whenever possible. To soothe the itching and dryness caused by stretched skin, use lotion. If you notice any changes in your skin, consult your doctor immediately.