Introduction
During pregnancy a variety of different skin changes can occur, which may occur individually or in parallel in some women and not at all in others.
Chloasma
The so-called chloasma (also: melasma or pregnancy mask) is a skin change that is considered to be a hyperpigmentation of the skin, i.e. an increased coloration. Chloasma can also occur independently of pregnancy, but is most often found in this phase of life. It is typically a brownish pigmentation of the neck, cheeks or forehead.
In women with a darker natural skin color, these spots can sometimes appear lighter than the rest of the skin. This coloration is caused by the fact that, stimulated by pregnancy hormones, the pigment melanin is stored in the skin. These spots become darker when exposed to high levels of sunlight, which is why those affected should avoid sunlight as far as possible or wear a high sun protection factor. Normally, the skin changes disappear again within three months after the end of pregnancy at the latest. It has been shown that one can support this regression process by taking sufficient folic acid, whether in its natural form (for example, in green vegetables, liver or whole grain cereals) or as a dietary supplement.
Linea nigra
The Linea nigra has a similar origin as the Chloasma. This is a dark line that reaches from the navel to the pubic bone. The dark coloration is also caused by excessive melanin deposits and recedes by itself. In addition to taking folic acid, a light massage probably accelerates the time until the affected skin area returns to normal.
Liver-related skin rash during pregnancy
Skin itching and also small reddish skin changes anywhere on the body are usually localized, i.e. caused by a skin disease. However, it is also possible that systemic causes are behind it. Systemic diseases are usually metabolic and detoxification processes that cannot take place properly in this situation.
Toxins, which should actually be eliminated from the body, accumulate in the body and cause an itchy skin reaction. This can lead to a bile flow problem, which then backs up in the liver. The lack of metabolism can then lead to itching and a rash on any part of the body. In addition to the itching on the body, the urine turns darker and the stool lighter in color. This condition, also known as cholestasis, must be treated, because although harmless and easily treatable gallstones may be behind the problem, life-threatening tumors can also be present.
