Skin changes are a common part of pregnancy, and skin tags are a frequent occurrence. While noticeable, these small growths are generally harmless and pose no health risk to the pregnant individual or the developing baby. Understanding why these changes happen can help manage any concerns.
Understanding Skin Tags
Skin tags, medically known as acrochordons, are small, benign growths of skin. They typically appear as soft, flesh-colored or slightly darker pieces of tissue, often connected to the skin by a slender stalk. Their size usually ranges from 1 to 5 millimeters, though some can grow larger.
These growths are composed of collagen fibers, blood vessels, and nerve cells, encased by an outer layer of skin. Skin tags commonly form in areas where skin folds occur or where skin frequently rubs against itself or clothing. Common locations include the neck, armpits, groin, eyelids, and underneath the breasts. They are not cancerous and typically cause no discomfort unless irritated by friction.
How Pregnancy Influences Skin Tag Development
Pregnancy can increase the likelihood of developing skin tags due to physiological changes. Hormonal fluctuations play a significant role, particularly elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones, along with increased growth factors like leptin, can stimulate skin cell proliferation, contributing to the formation of new growths.
The physical changes of pregnancy also contribute to skin tag development through increased friction. As the body gains weight and expands, areas with skin folds experience more rubbing. This constant skin-on-skin contact, such as under the breasts, in the armpits, or on the neck, creates an environment conducive to skin tag formation. Increased blood flow and temporary shifts in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity during pregnancy can also be associated with their development.
Managing Skin Tags While Pregnant
For individuals who develop skin tags during pregnancy, it is reassuring to know that these growths are typically harmless. In most cases, skin tags do not require removal unless they become irritated, painful, or start to bleed. Any concerns about new or existing skin tags should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Attempting to remove skin tags at home is not recommended due to potential risks. Self-removal can lead to complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, or scarring. A medical professional can safely assess the growths and advise on the best course of action. Healthcare providers often suggest leaving skin tags alone until after delivery, especially if they are not causing discomfort.
Skin Tags After Pregnancy
Many skin tags that appear during pregnancy may resolve on their own after childbirth. As hormone levels in the body return to their pre-pregnancy state, these growths can spontaneously shrink or disappear completely. This natural resolution is a common outcome for pregnancy-related skin tags.
For any skin tags that do not vanish after delivery and remain a cosmetic concern or cause irritation, various safe and effective removal options are available from a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare provider. Common professional methods for removal include cryotherapy (freezing), excision (surgical snipping), cauterization (burning), or ligation (tying off the blood supply).