We Should Know About Common Skin Problems During Pregnancy

Posted by NEO Hospital on April 27th, 2021

Pregnancy is the phase in a woman’s life when the body of a woman goes through a plethora of changes. The hormones in the body also caused several skin problems. But these skin conditions are not permanent as they disappear after the baby is born. Though most of them disappear but some of them may have a long-lasting impact on the skin. These skin conditions can be broadly divided into three categories. They are:

  1. Hormonal skin issues
  2. Preexisting skin issues
  3. Pregnancy-related skin issues

There are many skin specialist in Noida who can provide you with the best treatments for your skin problems.

Common skin-related issues during pregnancy

  1. Hyperpigmentation
  2. Melasma
  3. Stretch marks
  4. PUPPP
  5. Skin tags
  6. Acne
  7. Varicose veins
  8. Prurigo of pregnancy
  9. Pemphigoid gestationis
  10. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening of the skin. The darkening of the skin is caused by the increase in the substance called melanin. It is that substance that causes the color of the skin. During the pregnancy the production of melanin also increases in the body that causes hyperpigmentation.

Melasma

Melasma is again a form of hyperpigmentation that causes tan or brown patches on the face. It is one of the most common conditions that occurs during the pregnancy that is why it is also called the ‘the mask of the pregnancy’.

Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP)

PUPPP is the outbreak of pale red bumps on the skin that can cause itching, burning sensation or sting. They can range in size and may be called plaques when they form together in a large area on the abdomen, legs, arms, and buttocks during pregnancy. To minimize the symptoms of PUPPP you may use lukewarm water when washing, apply cool compresses, wear loose or lightweight clothes, avoid the use of soap on skin that has PUPPP as it can cause a lot of relief.

Stretch Marks

The scars that appear on the skin due to extra weight gain or shrunk by extreme weight loss cause the stretch marks. These scars usually appear on the belly, thighs, arms, buttocks or the breasts of pregnant ladies. These scars generally start off reddish or purplish in color and later turn into silver or white color, they may fade with time but does not completely vanish.

Skin tags

A small flap of skin that hangs from the skin but is not malignant are called skin tags.. These skin tags are usually found hanging on the neck, chest, back or under the breast area of a pregnant woman. They do not cause any pain and are generally considered painless. It may cause a little pain if it gets rub against something.

Acne

Breakouts of pimples on the face during the pregnancy is a common issue that the woman faces. They are caused by hormonal imbalance in the body but are not permanent. They disappear with the time or after the pregnancy. The common practices that can prevent the growth of acne are washing the face with lukewarm water, using a mild cleanser twice daily, keeping hair away from the face, shampooing daily, avoiding picking at pimples, using oil-free cosmetics.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are painful veins that are caused due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. These twisted and enlarged veins increase the weight and uterine pressure that decreases blood flow in the legs. These veins can also occur in vulva, vagina, rectum and legs. You can decrease the negative effect of the varicose veins by avoiding long hours of sitting and standing, avoid uncrossing the legs, try elevating the legs as much as possible, do exercise, avoid constipation by consuming lots of fluid.

Prurigo of pregnancy

Prurigo of pregnancy causes  tiny, itchy bumps that look like insect bites. These can be seen occurring in women throughout pregnancy or at any time of the pregnancy and may take months to get sorted.

Pemphigoid gestationis

It is an autoimmune disorder where blisters can be seen occurring on the belly that generally spread to other parts of the body and takes place during the second or third trimester. it might also occur immediately following childbirth.This condition can become the cause of preterm birth or a baby with low birth weight.

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a liver condition that appears during the pregnancy and becomes obvious in the third trimester of the pregnancy where the women may experience severe itching without rash. This condition can affect the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or trunk of the body. It generally disappears after the birth of the child but can increase the risk of preterm labor or even sometimes the death of the fetus.

Treatments

The above given skin conditions that appear during the pregnancy need an expert’s attention and most of them generally disappear after the birth of the child but it is mandatory to note that no medication should be taken without the consultation of the doctor as it may have serious consequences on the pregnant woman or the unborn child but the super speciality hospital Noida can help you with the best treatments.

Things to remember

  • A scent-free lotion or moisturizer should be used
  • Wear loose clothing
  • Wear cotton clothes or clothes made of natural fibers
  • Take a cool bath.
  • Apply ice on your skin
  • Avoid hot baths or showers
  • Avoid going out in the heat

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NEO Hospital
Joined: November 8th, 2020
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