Introduction
Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small, fleshy growths that can appear anywhere on the body and are especially common during pregnancy. Skin tags are soft, skin colored or slightly darker benign tumors of the skin’s surface. They may vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and can be single or multiple. Skin tags typically occur as a result of skin rubbing against itself or clothing and are most common in areas where there is a lot of friction such as the neck, armpits, groin area, and eyelids. There is some evidence to suggest they may be hereditary or passed down genetically. Other risk factors for developing skin tags include being overweight/obese and having certain medical conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol. During pregnancy in particular, hormones play a large role in appearing more common than normal.
How Common are Skin Tags During Pregnancy?
Skin tags are very common during pregnancy, with an estimated 86% of pregnant women experiencing them at some point. Most commonly, skin tags occur on parts such as the neck, underarms, groin area and eyelids. The increase in skin tags is caused by elevated levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy. These hormones can cause increased blood flow to areas which can promote the formation of skin tags. Increased weight gain during pregnancy can also put more pressure on certain areas and contribute to the development of these skin growths. Generally, skin tags will resolve after giving birth and hormone levels return to normal.
Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy-Related Skin Tag Growth
Skin tags are common during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester of the pregnancy. It is not clear why skin tags are more common during pregnancy, but it has been theorized that this may be linked to rising hormone levels or changes in blood circulation. Common areas for skin tag growth include the underarms and breasts, as well as areas around the eyelids and neck. Women who are overweight or have diabetes may be more prone to developing skin tags.
Common signs and symptoms of pregnancy-related skin tag growth include small fleshy flaps appearing on the surface of the skin which can vary in size from a few millimetres up to a centimetre in length. The colour of these tags can range from pale pink to dark brown and they tend to have a smooth texture, although they can sometimes be rough or irregularly shaped. This is because they are made up of collagen fibres and elastin which form over enlarged blood vessels under the skin’s surface. They typically remain attached to the body through a stalk-like structure known as a peduncle.
Potential Health Risks of Skin Tags During Pregnancy
Skin tags are common during pregnancy and can pose a risk for pregnant women. Skin tags, also known as acrochordons, are small pieces of extra skin that protrude from larger areas of the body such as the groin, neck, or armpit. These benign tumors typically have a soft, fleshy feel and can range in size from tiny bumps to several centimeters long. As pregnancy progresses, skin tags may become more noticeable due to hormones that lead to an increase in the production of oil in the skin.
The potential health risks associated with skin tags during pregnancy depend on their location on the body. The change in bodily hormones can cause skin tags to become redder, itchier, and possibly bleed if irritated. If a large cluster of skin tags appears near vaginal tissue or becomes irritated due to clothing rubbing against it regularly, bacterial infections and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) could be caught. This is especially true when they develop randomly over areas such as lower abdomen or upper thighs. In such cases it is important for pregnant women to check with their healthcare provider and get them checked out by a medical professional if there’s any concern about them getting infected. Additionally, if a woman has an underlying medical condition such as diabetes that can increase her risk for complications posed by skin tags during pregnancy, further consulting from her physician should be done.
Tips for Managing Skin Tags During Pregnancy
Yes, skin tags are very common during pregnancy, and they often become larger or more numerous. Skin tags during pregnancy typically appear in areas of the body where skin is more likely to rub together, such as on the neck, armpits, upper chest, and groin area. They usually clear up on their own after the baby is born, but if you want to try to manage them in the meantime, these tips can help:
• Keep the area surrounding skin tags clean and dry.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t rub against or bunch up against the skin tag.
• Avoid picking or scratching at skin tags.
• If a skin tag is large or exceptionally bothersome, talk to your doctor about having it professionally frozen off using cryotherapy or removed with a minor in-office procedure.
Treatment Options for Skin Tags During Pregnancy
Yes, skin tags during pregnancy are quite common. During pregnancy, hormones can change the body in many ways, and one of these changes is the formation of skin tags. They’re benign growths of skin and can appear on any part of the body but are most commonly found along necklines, underarms and eyelids. Treatment options for skin tags during pregnancy include simply snipping them off with scissors or having your doctor remove them with either electrolysis or procedures such as cryosurgery (freezing) or laser surgery. However, it is always best to consult a medical provider to ensure that the cause of the skin tag is identified before trying any methods of removal. Furthermore, for some women who suffer from chronic conditions like herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and type 2—which can cause genital lesions—may also need additional precautions since any minor skin breach could increase their risk of inflammation.
Conclusion
Skin tags are very common during pregnancy, with up to one in four pregnant women experiencing them. They are small, flesh-colored growths that typically appear around the eyelids, neck, armpits, and groin area. Even though skin tags are harmless and not painful, it can be alarming for a mother to experience a sudden growth on her body during pregnancy.
It is important for mothers to talk to their doctor if they notice any new skin tags or changes in existing ones during their pregnancy. In general, dermatologists recommend avoiding cutting off skin tags at home as it can cause inflammation and can leave scars. Therefore, doctors may advise freezing off or burning off the skin tag depending upon its size and location safely under medical supervision.
To support pregnant women with additional guidance regarding skin tags during pregnancy, educational resources should be made readily available by health care providers. Parents should also locate reliable sources of information about potential growths or changes that could occur during pregnancy so they know how to take action when needed. Providing expecting mothers with information about how common skin tag growths can be reassuring and help ensure their well-being throughout the course of their pregnancy journey.
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