Pregnancy pigmentationL81.1

Frequent (in up to 90% of pregnant women - Ambros-Rudolph C 2018), not pathological, mostly blurred, large or small spots, closed or reticular hyperpigmentation (melanosis) acquired during pregnancy which can occur locally or generalized (diffuse).

This is due to the increased production of estrogens, progesterone and MSH. In exposed skin areas UV leads to an additive pigmentation effect

face (10% of pregnancies); other localisations such as Areoalae mamillae, Labia minora, Linea fusca are affected to varying degrees in about 85% of pregnant women. Furthermore, the axillae, the inner thighs and the perineal region darken. Less frequent are pigmentation lines in places that are otherwise not visible (pigmentation along the so-called Voigt lines).

The localized hyperpigmentations are conspicuous, which are perceived as disturbing especially in the face(Melasma gravidarum in about 10% of pregnant women - Estève E et al. 1994). Pregnancy pigmentation affects brunette skin types more than very fair-skinned ones.

Textile light protection is recommended. Various bleaching agents are not recommended during pregnancy. After breastfeeding, persistent melasma gravidarum can be treated like any other melasma (see there).

1. Ambros-Rudolph C (2018) Pregnancy dermatoses. In: G. Plewig et al. (ed.), Braun-Falco`s Dermatology, Venerology and Allergology, Springer Reference Medicine. S. 1521
2. Errickson CV et al (1994) Skin disorders of pregnancy. On Fam Physician 49:605-610.
3. Estève E et al (1994) Physiological cutaneous signs in normal pregnancy: a study of 60 pregnant women. Ann Dermatol Venereol 121:227-231.
4. Motosko CC et al (2017) Physiologic changes of pregnancy: A review of the literature. Int J Women's Dermatol 3:219-224.
5. Tunzi M et al (2007) Common skin conditions during pregnancy. On Fam Physician 75:211-218.