What is Pyogenic Granuloma During Pregnancy? | Understanding Skin Changes in Pregnancy

Pregnancy brings a variety of changes to a woman’s body, some expected and others more surprising. One such unexpected condition that may occur during pregnancy is a pyogenic granuloma. Though rare, this benign skin growth can appear during pregnancy and often causes concern for expectant mothers. Understanding what pyogenic granulomas are, how they develop, and how they can be managed during pregnancy is essential for maintaining good antenatal health.

What is a Pyogenic Granuloma?

A pyogenic granuloma is a small, fast-growing, red or purple growth that can appear on the skin or mucous membranes. Despite the name, it is not actually caused by infection (the term “pyogenic” is misleading in this case). Rather, it is a benign vascular lesion, meaning it forms from blood vessels. This condition is also known as lobular capillary hemangioma and is most commonly found on the skin of the hands, face, or upper body, though it can occur anywhere on the body. During pregnancy, antenatal care often includes discussions about skin changes, as hormonal shifts and increased blood flow can cause a variety of skin conditions. Pyogenic granulomas are one of the less commonly discussed issues but can be an important topic for expectant mothers to understand.

How Does Pregnancy Influence the Development of Pyogenic Granuloma?

Pregnancy triggers numerous hormonal changes that affect nearly every part of a woman’s body, and the skin is no exception. During pregnancy, increased blood flow and hormonal fluctuations can cause changes in the vascular system, which may lead to the formation of a pyogenic granuloma. The condition tends to appear in the second or third trimester, although it can occur at any point during pregnancy. This is believed to be related to an increase in circulatory volume, which can result in the development of the abnormal growths on the skin. Additionally, if a woman is prone to conditions that affect blood vessel development or if she has had previous skin injuries, the likelihood of developing a pyogenic granuloma may be increased.

Factors that Contribute to Pyogenic Granuloma During Pregnancy:

• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy significantly alters hormone levels, especially oestrogen and progesterone. These hormonal fluctuations can affect blood vessels, causing them to grow and become enlarged.
• Increased Blood Flow: Pregnant women experience increased blood circulation, which can contribute to the development of blood vessel growths like pyogenic granulomas.
• Skin Trauma: Injury or irritation to the skin may also trigger the formation of a pyogenic granuloma. Pregnant women may be more prone to developing these lesions after minor injuries due to their heightened blood flow and vascular activity.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Pyogenic Granuloma

Pyogenic granulomas are typically raised, bright red, and shiny, often resembling a small bump or a growth. They may be smooth or ulcerated and can sometimes bleed easily when disturbed or injured. The size of these growths can vary, but they typically range from a few millimetres to a few centimetres in diameter. Pyogenic granulomas are usually painless, although they may become sensitive if irritated. If you notice any unusual skin growths during your pregnancy, it is essential to consult your antenatal support team, particularly your GP or midwife. While pyogenic granulomas are benign and typically harmless, it’s crucial to have them evaluated by a medical professional to rule out other potential conditions and to ensure the proper treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Pyogenic Granulomas

While pyogenic granulomas are generally not dangerous, their presence may cause distress for some women due to their appearance or tendency to bleed. Fortunately, the condition often resolves itself after childbirth, as the hormonal levels return to their pre-pregnancy state. However, if the growth becomes bothersome or if there is a risk of infection due to frequent bleeding, there are several treatment options available.

Non-invasive Treatment Options:

• Observation: If the pyogenic granuloma is not causing any discomfort or complications, your healthcare provider may suggest simply monitoring it during pregnancy. Many of these lesions will naturally shrink or disappear on their own after childbirth when hormonal levels stabilise.
• Topical Treatments: For small lesions, a healthcare provider may recommend topical treatments like corticosteroids or other creams to reduce inflammation and help manage the growth.

Invasive Treatment Options:

In rare cases, when the growth does not resolve on its own or is particularly large or troublesome, a more active treatment approach may be needed. This can include:

• Laser Therapy: A laser treatment may be used to target the growth, helping to shrink or remove the pyogenic granuloma. This is often done in cases where the lesion is causing discomfort or bleeding.
• Surgical Removal: If the pyogenic granuloma does not respond to other treatments, surgical excision may be necessary to remove the lesion entirely. However, surgery is generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as it carries some risks. It’s essential for expectant mothers to always consult their antenatal care team before pursuing any treatment. Since the skin and circulatory systems are undergoing significant changes during pregnancy, treatments need to be approached with caution.

Can Pyogenic Granulomas Affect Your Baby?

The good news is that pyogenic granulomas are benign and pose no harm to the fetus. They do not affect the developing baby, nor are they a sign of any serious underlying health issue. However, antenatal care providers will monitor the condition to ensure that it does not become infected or cause any complications that might affect the mother’s health.

Preventing Pyogenic Granulomas During Pregnancy

While pyogenic granulomas cannot always be prevented, there are some ways to reduce the risk of developing them during pregnancy:

• Protect the Skin: Avoid skin trauma and irritation as much as possible. Use moisturisers to keep the skin hydrated, and be cautious around rough surfaces or objects that could cause injury.
• Good Skin Care: Maintain a skincare routine that includes gentle cleansing and moisturising to keep your skin in good condition during pregnancy. This can help prevent the conditions that may contribute to the formation of growths like pyogenic granulomas.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you have any concerns about skin growths or any changes to your skin during pregnancy, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice. Regular antenatal appointments provide an excellent opportunity to discuss these concerns and receive the appropriate guidance and treatment.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience any of the following symptoms related to a pyogenic granuloma, it is important to seek prompt medical advice:

• Excessive Bleeding: If the lesion bleeds frequently or is difficult to control.
• Infection Signs: Redness, swelling, or discharge from the lesion could be a sign of infection.
• Rapid Growth: If the lesion grows quickly in size or changes in appearance. While pyogenic granulomas are generally harmless, it’s important to stay vigilant and seek guidance from your antenatal clinic if you notice any concerning symptoms.