Moles are common skin growths formed by clusters of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. The body undergoes numerous transformations during pregnancy, and the skin is no exception. Many individuals observe various changes in their skin, including existing moles, which are often influenced by significant hormonal shifts throughout gestation.
Why Moles Change During Pregnancy
Hormonal fluctuations play a primary role in mole changes during pregnancy. The placenta produces elevated levels of hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). These hormones directly impact skin and pigment cells.
Estrogen increases melanin synthesis, leading to darker pigmentation. Increased MSH levels also stimulate melanocytes to produce more pigment. This hormonal environment creates conditions conducive to changes in existing moles and the formation of new ones. Elevated blood flow to the skin during pregnancy can further contribute to moles appearing larger or more raised.
Normal Mole Changes to Expect
During pregnancy, common and typically harmless changes in moles include darkening, an increase in size, and the appearance of new moles. Existing moles may become more noticeable, particularly on areas like the face, abdomen, breasts, and armpits.
Moles can also grow larger, especially where the skin stretches significantly to accommodate the growing uterus and breasts. Hormonal triggers can activate dormant melanocytes, leading to the formation of new pigmented spots.
These changes are generally considered benign and are part of the normal physiological response to pregnancy. Many of these temporary alterations often revert to their pre-pregnancy appearance within about a year after childbirth.
Warning Signs and When to Consult a Doctor
While many mole changes during pregnancy are benign, it remains important to monitor them for characteristics that could indicate a more serious condition, such as melanoma. The “ABCDE” rule provides a practical guide for self-examination:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.
- Border irregularity: Edges that are ragged, notched, or blurred.
- Color variation: Inconsistent shades of tan, brown, black, or even red, white, or blue.
- Diameter: Larger than 6 millimeters, roughly the size of a pencil eraser.
- Evolving: Any change in the mole’s size, shape, color, or height, or the development of new symptoms like itching, tenderness, bleeding, or a non-healing sore.
It is important to consult a dermatologist or healthcare provider if any of these warning signs are observed. Early detection of melanoma is important for successful treatment. Diagnostic procedures like skin biopsies are safe to perform during pregnancy and should not be delayed due to concerns about the pregnancy. Individuals should avoid dismissing concerning mole changes as simply a normal part of pregnancy, as a professional evaluation is essential to differentiate between benign and potentially serious conditions.