Skin changes during pregnancy. Is that an important issue for pregnant women?

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of self-reported skin complaints during pregnancy, applied treatment and the impact on well-being of pregnant women.

Material and methods: We asked 1935 women that were maximum 4 years after labor to fill in our questionnaire. The questionnaire included questions concerning the course of pregnancy, observed skin lesions, applied treatment and influence on the quality of life.

Results: Skin changes during pregnancy were reported by 1447 patients (74.78%). The prevalence of self-reported skin complaints were as follows: stretch marks (77.4%), acne (21.6%) and recurrent herpes labialis (11.6%). In 43.67% (n = 632) of women who reported dermatological problems during pregnancy the disease caused significant deterioration in their well-being. Only 168 patients (11.61%) received dermatological treatment from their obstetricians. Dermatological con-sultation required 217 patients (14.99%). For 133 of treated women (25.68%) the recommended treatment was expensive. However, in the majority of patients (379; 73.15%) who received treatment the skin changes resolved after therapy. Skin symptoms resolved significantly faster in the treated group (3.5 ± 4.3 week vs 5.8 ± 6.2 week; p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Self-reported skin complaints seem to be a relevant problem during pregnancy. Proper skin care as well as appropriate treatment applied by obstetricians and/or dermatologists may help women to recover.

Keywords: acne; herpes labialis; pregnancy dermatoses; stretch marks.