Skin Tags During Pregnancy: Tips for Moms to Be

Welcoming a new life into the world is accompanied by a multitude of changes in your body that impact the skin. 

So, we´ll delve into the connection between skin tags and pregnancy, offering insights into their causes, duration, and management. 

In this article, we will address the most important and provide you with the knowledge you need to go through this phase with confidence. 

So, let's begin!

Unraveling the connection

Pregnancy is a time of big transformation, both emotionally and physically. 

Among the myriad changes your body undergoes, the emergence of skin tags might catch your attention. 

These benign growths, often small and fleshy, can appear in different areas of the body over the skin´s surface.

👉While they might seem perplexing, there's a connection to explore between these growths and the incredible changes happening within your body. 

But, it's reassuring to know that they are generally harmless and don't pose any risks to you or your baby's health. 

Let's delve into the intricacies of the link between skin tags and pregnancy, shedding light on their emergence and potential significance.

Causes of their development

The exact reasons for their development during pregnancy are not fully understood, but it is believed that hormonal fluctuations play an important role. 

It is a time when the body adapts to the baby's growth, which can lead to various physiological changes. 

And that can contribute to their development, among other skin and body alterations.

💡It is important to keep in mind that, although skin tags may be more visible during pregnancy, they are not exclusive to this phase of life. 

People can experience them whether they are pregnant or not, and various factors, such as genetics and even pre-existing health conditions, can contribute to their formation.

Anyway, skin tags that appear during pregnancy stem from two main factors: 

👉Hormonal changes: Your body goes through a lot of hormonal shifts during pregnancy, with estrogen and progesterone taking the lead. These hormones cause various changes in your body, including alterations in your skin's texture and flexibility, paving the way for develop.

👉Increased friction: As your body changes shape during pregnancy, certain areas might experience more rubbing and friction due to skin-to-skin contact or clothing. This friction can create an environment where skin tags are more likely to form.

Its presence in key areas

It is quite common for skin tags to appear on specific areas of the body.

Especially, if they are sensitive areas and in which different factors are involved at the same time for their growth. Let's take a look at some of them:

➡️On the aureola or nipple

During pregnancy, your breasts undergo significant changes in size, shape, and sensitivity. 

It's not uncommon for these changes to extend to the nipple or areola area, where you might notice the presence of skin tags. 

While they can cause some discomfort or worry, especially if you're breastfeeding, they are generally harmless and do not require immediate medical attention.

➡️Over belly button 

As your belly expands to accommodate your growing baby, you might discover skin tags around your belly button. 

The stretching and friction caused by your expanding abdomen can contribute to the development of these growths. 

Although they might be a bit bothersome, particularly if they snag on clothing, rest assured that they are benign and there are gentle ways to resolve them.

Duration and persistence 

You may be wondering how long pregnancy skin tags last, if they go away naturally, or if there is an excellent way to deal with them.

👉Individual experiences vary and their duration is influenced by factors like genetics, hormonal changes, and body areas prone to friction. 

In order to give more clarity on the matter, let's solve the common questions one by one.

Will skin tags from pregnancy go away?

It's quite common for skin tags that develop during pregnancy to resolve on their own after childbirth. 

👉As your body's hormonal balance stabilizes and the factors contributing to their growth diminish, many skin tags have a tendency to shrink or fall off naturally. 

However, the timeline for this process can vary from person to person.

Will skin tags fall off naturally?

Yes, many skin tags that appear during pregnancy have the potential to fall off naturally. 

👉As the above factors become less prevalent after childbirth, these growths may become less prominent and eventually detach from the skin.

It's important to note that not all skin tags will behave the same way, and some might require more time to disappear.

How long do pregnancy skin tags last?

The duration of pregnancy skin tags can vary widely depending on the person and their overall health story. 

👉Some may disappear shortly after giving birth, while others might linger for a few weeks or even months. 

Generally, they have a tendency to diminish or resolve on their own over time.

Especially when your body's hormone levels stabilize and the friction that contributes to their development decreases.

How do you get rid of skin tags when pregnant?

During pregnancy, it's advisable to avoid aggressive methods of removing skin tags, such as cutting or cauterization. 

👉Given the delicate nature of pregnancy and the potential effects on your baby, it's best to prioritize gentle and non-invasive approaches. 

If a skin tag is causing discomfort or concern, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional for guidance on safe removal options. 

In many cases, simply allowing the skin tag to naturally resolve after childbirth is the most prudent course of action.

Management strategies

Managing skin tags during pregnancy involves understanding your options and considering your unique circumstances. 

✨Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Consultation: Before taking any action, consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your skin tags and provide personalized recommendations based on your pregnancy and medical history.

• Conservative approach: Given the changes your body is undergoing, it might be recommended to wait until after childbirth to address skin tags can be a prudent choice, as hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can impact healing.

• Topical solutions: If your healthcare provider approves, this kind of solution might be considered for managing skin tags. But, it's essential to ensure that any products used are safe for both you and your developing baby.

• Postpartum options: If skin tags persist after pregnancy, you can explore options for removal after delivery. You can move forward with a friendlier and more effective procedure to achieve your goal and take care of your skin.

Embracing change and care

As you navigate the incredible journey of pregnancy, encountering changes in your body is all part of the process. 

Skin tags, though they might seem unusual or unfamiliar, are typically benign and temporary companions during this transformative phase. 

Armed with knowledge and guidance, you can confidently embrace these changes and focus on the exciting moments that lie ahead. 

Remember, your body is adapting to create new life, and with each passing day, you're inching closer to welcoming your precious bundle of joy.

If you have any further questions about skin tags or their treatment, do not hesitate to contact your regular physician or a skin care professional.