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

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.

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.

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).

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.