SKIN CHANGES IN PREGNANCY
SKIN CHANGES IN PREGNANCY ARE
Itching
Pigmentation
Rashes
Dryness
Oiliness
Tags
Acne
Stretch marks
Most of the skin changes are because of hormones surge in the body leading to increased sensitivity and photo allergic reactions in the body.
1. ITCHING
Itching is a very common problem encountered in the last trimester of pregnancy. It may be mild to severe and the cause is believed to be the stasis of liver enzymes in the blood. Also the skin stretches and becomes thinner resulting in loss of moisture, dryness and progressively more itching. The itching may be as severe as to cause severe rash on the skin too.
You can try a simple moisturizer or a safe anti itching remedy. If uncontrollable, your doctor will be able to help you out with the pills.
2. PIGMENTATION
- A general increase in pigmentation is quite normal. All this is more common in dark haired women. The pigmentation is also more commonly seen in nipples, genital area and the centre of abdomen
- Pregnancy mask or CLOASMA is the mask like pigmentation around the nose, in the cheeks and the neck area; it typically appears in the second trimester and disappears a few weeks after delivery. It is caused by combination of estrogen, other hormones and sunlight.
- Linea nigra: This is the dark brown to black line like pigmentation starting from umbilicus to the pubic symphysis, it appears in the 4th to 5th month and disappears a few days after delivery.
- There may be new moles and increase in the size and pigmentation of previous moles. It brings back the memory of youth; there are freckles too in the face, armpits and neck.
3. RASHES
- HEAT RASH: This is because of over stimulation of sweat glands in pregnancy leading to rash in the groin area and under the breasts. The best way to avoid these is to wear support bras, wash the affected areas and dust them lightly.
- PEP (polymorphic eruption of pregnancy): These are itchy pimples over the stretch marks occurring in the last trimester or after delivery. It is a self resolving problem and only light moisturizer can be used to relieve it.
- RED AND ITCHY PALMS AND SOLES because of increased estrogen may be a common problem one may have to face.
4. SKIN DRYNESS
May be encountered because of estrogen again. For this problem drink plenty of water. Remember that Air conditioning and central heating can be very drying to the skin. Use a gentle face wash instead of soap and also use a rich moisturizer designed to work at night.
5. SKIN OILINESS:
There is over stimulation of sebaceous glands in pregnancy and it causes oiliness and spots in the skin .whatever it is, do not take oral drugs for acne. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet containing plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Also use a gentle cleanser and toner.
6. SKIN TAGS:
These are tiny, floppy growths that are seen on underarms, face, neck and breasts seen in the second and third trimester. These will shrink after delivery. So do not worry.
There is over stimulation of sebaceous glands leading to acne formation and these changes may continue for a few months after delivery also.
7. The most common and a universal problem are of STRETCH MARKS on your abdomen, thighs, breasts and arms. The cause is generally GENETIC and all the products marketed to avoid stretch marks are not too helpful. Gaining weight slowly may help out because sudden increase causes more stretch and marks. With time the stretch marks fade to almost skin tone.
TO KNOW MORE ON PREGNANCY LOG ON TO OUR SITE ‘OURBABYSWORLD.COM’
Our other pregnancy sections to visit
• What to expect during ultrasounds
• How can I remain healthy in my pregnancy
• Am I eating the right food? Visit our weekly nutrition section.
• Calculate your due date with our due date calculator
• Read more about morning sickness
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