Pregnancy and skin woes

For the safety of the unborn child, expecting mothers should consult a doctor instead of using over-the-counter medications for skin problems

It is difficult to put into words the excitement and the joy you felt when you discovered that a life was taking shape in the shelter of your womb. You probably also recollect feeling overwhelmed or feeling a healthy dose of apprehension for what lay ahead. Women all over the world will confess to a feeling of nervousness and rightfully so. A pregnancy is accompanied by numerous physical and emotional changes that make it unforgettable in both good and bad ways.

If you are pregnant, you have likely made your acquaintance with morning sickness, heightened sensitivity to smells, swelling, constipation and a host of other physical discomforts. These are the results of the changes in a woman’s body as it tries to accommodate the new life growing in her womb. As hormones adjust to best cater to your child’s needs, you will observe physical changes that might be emotionally challenging. Your skin, the largest organ in your body, will also feel the effects of these hormonal variations.

Pregnancy is responsible for a host of skin problems among women. These can range from simple acne to severe blisters and rashes that might need medical attention. Popular literature and media tell us that pregnant women develop a unique radiance or glow. While this is not untrue (since increased blood flow will make your cheeks healthier looking), a glow is not the only thing your skin is wearing during a pregnancy. In fact, pregnancy masks are more common. ‘The mask of pregnancy’ is a term ascribed to melasma, a condition that causes dark patches to appear on the face or neck. Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation, which is caused by an increase in melanin production in the body. Avoiding the sun, especially between 10 am and 2 pm or using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 will help keep melasma in check. Melasma can be treated with prescription creams and other skin care products but consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis. A few weeks or months after your delivery, you might notice your skin lightening naturally.

Many pregnant women who have had clear skin for years leading up to their pregnancy might see their skin regress to their teen years with the dreaded acne making a comeback. Increased sebum leads to clogged pores causing acne, usually in the first trimester. The trick is to keep your skin clean while ensuring that it’s not too dry. Consult a doctor if the problem is severe; if it isn’t, it’s probably best to wait it out because it’s highly likely that your skin will clear up after your baby is born.

Another common complaint is stretch marks. As your stomach expands to accommodate your growing baby, you will notice red lines on your skin that are the result of your skin stretching over your increased girth. Over times, these become white. The marks could appear on your breast, thighs and hips, in addition to your tummy as you gain weight. Of course, the best thing to do would be not to gain too much weight but that is easier said than done. A diet rich in Vitamins E and C and zinc and silica will help keep the skin healthy. Gentle message of your tummy with a cream or oil recommended by your doctor will also help minimize stretch marks. Over-the-counter medication should be avoided since such they might contain harmful chemicals. Usually, these marks fade a few months after your child is born. However, they might not disappear entirely. Unsightly red stretch marks can be removed by laser treatment after you have had your child; similarly, white marks can be removed using fractional laser treatment.

Stretched skin and chafing caused by weight gain could also lead to itching. This might be restricted to your tummy or might extend to other areas as well. To reduce it, wear loose and comfortable clothes and avoid stepping out in the heat as much as possible. Avoid bathing in hot water since this will make your skin drier and worsen the itching. Mild soaps and unscented moisturizers also help keep the skin better hydrated.

Some women, however, suffer far more serious problems caused by itching and rashes. Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP) are pale red lesions on the skin of the abdomen, legs, arms, and buttocks. These are extremely itch sometimes burn or sting and can be small or about palm-sized. Individually, they are called papules and when they appear together in a large area, they are called plaques. Doctors recommend washing the affected area with lukewarm water, applying cold compresses or wet cloths and wearing loose clothing. You can consult your doctor, who might prescribe antihistamines; however, these must not be taken without a doctor’s prescription.

Pregnant women also report instances of skin tags. These are small tissue flaps occurring on the skin’s surface. They are usually non-cancerous and are spotted on the neck, chest, back, under the breasts, and on the groin. These are painless and doctors recommend leaving them to be treated post pregnancy, at which time they can be cut off with a scalpel or scissors or through carbon dioxide laser or electro surgery.

There are other skin problems too that could arise. It is, therefore, important to keep track of your health and report any unusual rashes or lesions to your doctor so they don’t endanger the safety of your baby. Pemphigoid gestationis, for instance, manifests as blistering lesions (although its first appearance may resemble hives) and is sometimes associated with preterm delivery and should, therefore, be considered a serious problem and brought to a doctor’s attention.

Remember, do not self medicate when pregnant. Medicines that would once be considered safe have to be reevaluated during a pregnancy. So, always consult a doctor before reaching for a cream or a pill.

Photo Credit: David Leo Veksler via Compfight cc