5 Changes That Happen to the Skin During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the stomach is not the only part of the body that changes. Hormonal fluctuations cause many changes during pregnancy, such as strange cravings, unstable emotions, to changes in the skin.

What do you think changes happen to women who are pregnant? Summarized from the pages of Everyday Health and Medical News Today, this is what will happen to the skin in the next nine months.

1. Stretch marks

Stretch marks are a common thing experienced by women who are pregnant. During pregnancy, stretch marks will usually appear on the abdomen, buttocks, breasts, or thighs. At first, stretch marks have a reddish-purple appearance and, over time, fade to silver or white.

Although they can fade on their own, stretch marks, don't go away completely. One thing you can do to control stretch marks during pregnancy is to keep your skin moisturized.

2. Skin tags

Skin tags are small skin growths with a small, narrow base and are harmless. Skin tags are usually found in high friction areas, such as the armpits, groin, under the breasts, or the base of the neck.

Skin tags often appear in pregnant women in the second and third trimesters. During pregnancy, there is an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels which stimulate the growth of the outer layer of the skin. In some women, the skin tags will shrink after giving birth, but for the most part, they remain. However, don't worry. Skin tags can be removed with the help of a dermatologist.

3. Spider veins and varicose veins

Spider veins are small red veins most commonly seen on the face, neck, and arms. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and higher blood volume are the causes of spider veins.

Meanwhile, the varicose vein is a condition that occurs due to enlarged blood vessels, which increase weight and uterine pressure. This condition reduces blood flow to the legs. Varicose veins commonly occur on the legs, vulva, vagina, and rectum but usually go away after delivery.

The good news is that varicose veins during pregnancy can be prevented and controlled with the following actions:

• limit sitting and standing time;
• not crossing your legs when sitting for long periods;
• elevate legs if possible;
• exercise frequently; and
• prevent constipation with exercise and adequate fluid needs.

4. Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is dark patches on the skin. Hyperpigmentation occurs due to an increase in the amount of melanin.

In pregnant women, hyperpigmentation usually resolves on its own after delivery. However, hyperpigmentation may persist for several years. Meanwhile, an example of hyperpigmentation in pregnancy is melasma in brown patches on the face, cheeks, nose, and forehead.

Although common in pregnant women, melasma during pregnancy can be controlled by:

• limiting sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.;
• use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more; and
• wear a wide-brimmed hat when outside.

In addition, you may also need to consult a dermatologist about how to treat melasma during pregnancy.

5. Acne

Increased levels of progesterone during pregnancy also trigger more sebum or oil production, which can cause acne. Even though you may feel like dealing with acne during pregnancy, you must choose treatment products.

Keep in mind, you need to avoid products containing retinol, retinoids, and salicylic acid because of the risk of causing birth defects. To be on the safe side, check with your doctor first before using any skincare products during pregnancy.

All these skin changes are normal during pregnancy, so there is no need to panic. However, you can also consult a doctor to anticipate and control these changes.