Pregnancy is great news for a couple looking forward to bring in their bundle of joy into this world. But, mom-to-be have their share of problems, especially due to the hormonal changes that their body is going through. Here we are not simply indicating the mood swings, but the impact of changing hormones on the skin. Expectant mothers have a glow, which is called “pregnancy glow” but it does not mean that they are not facing skin problems.
It is true that every pregnancy is different, and so are the problems faced and its scale. However, considering the common factor, here we present the top 6 skin problems during pregnancy, which is noted by a majority of the expectant mothers.
- Stretch marks: During pregnancy, the body expands, which leads to the development of stretch marks. Stretch marks are reddish lines on the skin, which are mostly noticed in the belly and the breast. Stretch marks occur due to rapid weight gain during pregnancy. To prevent them, you should massage your belly, breast, thighs, and hips regularly and also exfoliate the areas gently. Several ointments and creams are available and can be used, based on your doctor’s advice. However, it should be noted that to prevent stretch marks, keeping the skin hydrated is essential.
- Sensitive skin: During pregnancy, the hormonal change makes the skin sensitive. So, it is important that you use products suitable for sensitive skin or natural products. While exfoliating the skin, be sure to be gentle as the skin is prone to wounds and cuts. You can also use a soft loofah for cleaning.
- Acne or pimples: Hormonal change during pregnancy can cause a lot of skin problems along with the development of acne or pimples. For treating acne, apply creams or lotion, but with your doctor’s advice. It is important that you take your doctor’s advice all medications may not be suitable for use as the products may not be appropriate for pregnant women.
- Hyperpigmentation: During pregnancy, the hormones are on an overdrive, which may lead to the development of dark patches on the skin. These dark patches appear mostly on the face,, so it is also referred to as the mask of pregnancy. In most cases, hyperpigmentation resolves post-delivery, but it may also persist afterward too, and take a longer time to disappear.
- Rashes: Dry skin is very normal during pregnancy and it leads to itchy rashes. These rashes mostly appear around the stretch marks and are more prominent during the advanced stage of pregnancy. Being hydrated both internally, by consuming plenty of liquids and externally, by applying moisturizers is important to combat itchy rashes.
- Itchiness: Hormonal changes during pregnancy also affect the liver as the normal bile flow in the gallbladder is impacted. This leads to itchy skin, but it is most severe in the palms of your hand and the soles of your foot. Called cholestasis of pregnancy, can also be accompanied by jaundice. So, it is important to take a doctor’s advice and get tested at the right time to start treatment.
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