Coping with Skin Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a time when pregnant women experience all sorts of temporary body changes that may require special care and adjustment during the months leading up to the delivery .Many pregnant women notice changes in their skin and may be challenged as to how to care for skin that is dryer, oilier, experiencing acne, etc. Understanding what is going on with your skin during pregnancy may help, but adjustments to skin care will likely be necessary for the short term.

Women who normally have dry skin, may find their skin even drier during pregnancy. Likewise, women with oily skin may find it even oilier. The reverse may also be true and women may find themselves trying to cope with skin that is very different from what is typical. Some women also find they develop trouble with acne, blemishes, rashes and other skin issues during pregnancy. Other women may notice changes in the pigment of their skin and dark patches may appear on the face (this may be more common in women with darker hair and skin.) Finally, the development of stretch marks (striae gravidarum) during pregnancy is seldom a welcome pregnancy change for women.

But, what can be done about all these changes? Not much can be done to prevent the changes that occur with the skin during pregnancy, but there are adaptations that can help pregnant women cope. A healthy, well-balanced diet and the addition of pre-natal vitamins may help some. Additionally, drinking plenty of water during the day can help the skin stay as healthy as possible as well.