Will I Get Skin Tags in Pregnancy? Causes, Care, and Solutions for Expectant Mothers

Pregnancy is a time of profound transformation, with many women noticing changes in their bodies that they didn’t anticipate. From weight gain to stretch marks, the list of physical changes is extensive. One common, though often unexpected, occurrence is the development of skin tags. These small, benign growths of skin can appear during pregnancy, leading many expectant mothers to wonder: Will I get skin tags in pregnancy? In this article, we will explore the causes of skin tags during pregnancy, how they relate to antenatal care, and whether there are any steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing them. We will also delve into how antenatal appointments, antenatal support, and other aspects of pregnancy care can help manage any concerns regarding skin changes during pregnancy.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, soft, and usually benign growths of skin that hang off the body, often by a thin stalk. They can vary in size, from a few millimetres to a few centimetres, and are typically flesh-coloured, although they may be darker in some cases. Skin tags are most commonly found in areas where skin rubs against skin, such as the neck, armpits, groin, under the breasts, or around the eyes. Although skin tags are generally harmless and do not cause any discomfort, they can be bothersome due to their appearance or because they may rub against clothing or jewellery, causing irritation. The presence of skin tags during pregnancy is relatively common and, for many women, they are a temporary condition that disappears after childbirth.

Why Do Skin Tags Appear During Pregnancy?

The hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy play a significant role in the development of skin tags. During pregnancy, the body experiences a surge in hormones, including oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones can increase the production of skin cells and the growth of blood vessels, which can lead to the formation of skin tags. Here are some of the key factors contributing to skin tag development during pregnancy:

1. Hormonal Changes

The dramatic hormonal shifts during pregnancy, particularly the increased levels of oestrogen, can affect the skin. These hormonal changes can stimulate the growth of excess skin in areas where friction occurs, leading to the formation of skin tags.

2. Increased Skin Friction

As your body grows and changes during pregnancy, friction becomes more common, especially in areas like the armpits, under the breasts, and in the groin area. This friction, combined with the skin’s increased sensitivity due to pregnancy hormones, can encourage the development of skin tags.

3. Increased Blood Flow

Pregnancy increases blood flow throughout the body, which can contribute to the growth of skin tags. The extra blood supply to the skin may cause small blood vessels to enlarge, creating a favourable environment for skin tags to form.

4. Weight Gain

Many women gain weight during pregnancy, which can lead to more skin folds and areas of friction where skin tags can form. In some cases, the growth of the skin tags can be linked to the skin’s increased tension from stretching.

Are Skin Tags Common During Pregnancy?

Yes, skin tags are relatively common during pregnancy. A study published in the International Journal of Dermatology reported that around 25% of pregnant women will develop skin tags at some point during their pregnancy. This number may vary depending on various factors, including genetics and the severity of hormonal changes. While the presence of skin tags can be surprising, it is important to note that they are not harmful and typically do not cause any significant health problems. However, they can be unsightly or cause mild irritation if they rub against clothing or jewellery.

Where Do Skin Tags Appear During Pregnancy?

Skin tags tend to appear in areas where there is frequent friction, especially as the body undergoes physical changes during pregnancy. Some common areas for skin tags include:

• Underarms: Increased body size and hormonal changes can cause the skin in the armpits to rub together more frequently, leading to skin tag formation.
• Under the breasts: As the breasts enlarge during pregnancy, the skin underneath may rub together, creating areas where skin tags can form.
• Neck and jawline: Hormonal changes and the extra weight from pregnancy can contribute to the development of skin tags on the neck and jawline.
• Groin area: Increased skin folds in the groin area can lead to friction and the formation of skin tags.
• Around the eyes: Though less common, skin tags can also develop near the eyelids or the eye area during pregnancy.

Are Skin Tags Harmful or Dangerous?

No, skin tags are generally harmless. They are benign growths that are not linked to any serious health problems. However, some women may find that their skin tags become irritated, especially if they rub against clothing, jewellery, or other areas of skin. In rare cases, if a skin tag becomes twisted or caught, it may become painful, but this is not common. If you are concerned about the appearance or discomfort of skin tags, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional during your antenatal appointments. Your doctor can confirm that the skin tags are harmless and may suggest ways to manage or remove them if necessary.

How Can I Manage Skin Tags During Pregnancy?

While skin tags are generally harmless, you may want to manage or remove them if they cause irritation or discomfort. Here are some tips for managing skin tags during pregnancy:

1. Monitor Your Skin Tags

If you develop skin tags during pregnancy, the first step is to keep an eye on them. Ensure that they are not growing rapidly or changing in appearance. If they cause irritation or discomfort, it’s a good idea to discuss them during your next antenatal checkup.

2. Avoid Scratching or Irritating the Skin Tags

Skin tags can become irritated if they rub against clothing or jewellery. Try to avoid irritating them further by wearing loose, comfortable clothing and avoiding tight jewellery.

3. Speak to Your Doctor or Midwife

If your skin tags become painful or bothersome, it is important to speak to your doctor or midwife. They can offer advice on whether removal is necessary or if there are alternative ways to manage them without surgery. Keep in mind that skin tag removal is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as the procedure may cause irritation or complications.

4. Postpartum Skin Tag Removal

After pregnancy, many women notice that their skin tags shrink or disappear entirely. If your skin tags persist and cause discomfort or cosmetic concern, you can speak with your doctor about removal options once you have given birth. Methods of removal may include cryotherapy (freezing), excision, or cauterisation.

The Role of Antenatal Care in Managing Skin Changes

Throughout pregnancy, regular antenatal care plays an important role in ensuring that your physical changes are monitored and managed. If you develop skin tags, your antenatal checkups provide an opportunity for you to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Your doctor or midwife can offer advice on how to manage skin changes during pregnancy and ensure that they do not interfere with your overall wellbeing. During antenatal appointments, you can also discuss other skin changes that may occur, such as pigmentation changes (melasma) or stretch marks. Antenatal support can help you navigate these changes with confidence and ensure that you are taking the appropriate steps to care for your skin. While skin tags can be a common occurrence during pregnancy, they are typically harmless and temporary. Hormonal changes, increased skin friction, and weight gain all contribute to the formation of skin tags, especially in areas where the skin rubs together. Although they are often harmless, if you experience irritation or discomfort from skin tags, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider during your antenatal appointments for advice on how to manage or treat them. By receiving regular antenatal care and maintaining open communication with your doctor or midwife, you can ensure that any skin changes, including the development of skin tags, are addressed appropriately and that your pregnancy remains as healthy and comfortable as possible.