September 15, 2020
Many physiological skin changes occur during pregnancy, which is one of the most exciting processes of women. These changes are related to the hormones that change during pregnancy and are not a sign of disease.
Color changes
The most common skin change during pregnancy is darkening, which is more evident in expectant mothers with dark skin. In 70-90% of pregnant women, the skin color of the nipples becomes more or less dark. Darkening can also be seen in the genital area, around the navel, under the armpits and on the inside of the legs. It often returns after birth. Pigmentary changes on the face are often in the form of irregularly circumscribed brown spots on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose and chin and are called the pregnancy mask. This condition, which can be seen in half of the pregnant women, usually occurs in the second half of pregnancy. In order to prevent the formation of blemishes, it is recommended to use sunscreen with physical barrier properties from the beginning of pregnancy. Darkening may be observed in the color of existing moles, but moles with rapid growth should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Hair, hair, nail changes
Hair growth and reduction in hair loss can be seen. There may be an increase in mild-to-moderate hair growth that starts in the early period of pregnancy. This situation usually regresses and disappears in the last period of pregnancy or after delivery.
During pregnancy, the nails can become soft and thin and break easily, Separations, grooves, Thickening at the ends, White color change can be seen
Pimples
The hormonal environment that changes during pregnancy, especially after the 8th week, causes an increase in pre-existing acne in some expectant mothers or the appearance of acne for the first time during pregnancy. Creams, washing gels, soaps can be used with the recommendation of the doctor.
Vascular changes
Redness and itching may occur on the palms and rarely on the soles of the feet. Moisturizing creams can be helpful when itching is severe. In the itching that does not respond to moisturizers, some drugs can be used according to the doctor's recommendation.
Spider-like veins on the skin often appear on the face and neck, and sometimes on the skin of the abdomen. They are in the form of a vein in the center and capillaries spreading radially from this vein like a spider's feet. They usually disappear in a short time after pregnancy. If they are permanent, they can be easily treated with laser systems.
Varicose veins can be seen in the legs due to hormonal changes and increased intra-abdominal pressure, it is recommended not to stand for a long time.
Cracks
It develops in the abdomen, hips, thighs, and breasts. They occur due to excessive stretching of the skin, sometimes accompanied by itching. The cracks, which appear red during pregnancy, take a whitish color after birth. They are permanent. It is thought to be hereditary. Although it is not possible to completely prevent cracks , the risk of occurrence can be reduced by taking some precautions . The risk of stretch marks can be reduced by consuming plenty of water, applying moisturizer frequently, and using stretch marks creams.
