Cutaneous changes during pregnancy

The distribution of pigment changes in selective -

Face - (Chloasma gravidarum or pregnancy mask) -

• It is an extreme form of pigmentation around the cheek, forehead and around the eyes. Disappears spontaneously after the delivery.

Breast - 

• Increase size of breast becomes evident even in early weeks. This is due to marked hypertrophy and proliferation of ducts and alveoli. Vascularity is increased which results in appearance of bluish vein which running under skin. The nipples become larger, erectile and deeply pigmented. 
• About 5th month, a less pigmented area forms around the primary areola witch is known as secondary areola.

Abdomen -

• Linea nigra - It is brownish black pigmented area in the middle stretching from xiphisternum to pubic symphysis. Pigmentary changes are due to probably melanocyte stimulating hormone (MHS) from the anterior pituitary. Pigmentation disappear after delivery.
• Straie gravidarum - These are slightly depressed liner mark with varying length and width found in pregnancy. They are predominantly found in abdominal wall below the umbilicus, sometimes over the thigh and breast.

Related  Articles :

• Blood or Hematological changes during pregnancy
• Changes in the Endocrine system
• Diagnosis of pregnancy in first trimester
• Changes occur during 8th week of pregnancy