A lot of things happen in the body when you are pregnant. Your body becomes a little delicate, and you experience digestive issues, back and joint pain, heartburn, pregnancy glow and whatnot.
There’s a logical explanation for all these when you are pregnant, but what about the pregnancy glow? They say your skin glows differently when you are pregnant. Is it true? Yes, it is, but is there a reason why this happens? A scientific reason perhaps? Yes, certainly.
This blog will discuss the scientific explanation as to why it happens.
The scientific reason behind pregnancy glow
The primary reason for pregnancy glow is the increased blood flow during pregnancy. The blood flow increases to nurture the growing baby in the womb. This ensures that more blood reaches the skin, along with other parts of the body. Consequently, you are likely to have a rosy and radiant glow during pregnancy.
In addition, several hormonal changes also take place in the body. This includes an increased production of estrogen and progesterone, which can create a shinier radiance in the skin owing to increased oil production. In addition, this boost in hormones can improve skin elasticity by increasing the amount of collagen and elastin in the skin.
Furthermore, most women tend to improve their diet for the health of their babies, further improving the glow of the skin.
Some psychological factors also matter
Apart from causing a little inconvenience, pregnancy is the happiest time in most women’s lives. As your mental health also influences the glow on your skin, the joy and happiness of having a baby can add to the radiance.
However…
While this pregnancy glow is common in pregnant ladies, some women may not experience it. As bodies differ, this phenomenon is not a universal thing. Having said that, some women may experience the opposite of pregnancy glow. They may experience some skin issues, including:
Acne
Pregnancy comes with hormone fluctuations. These hormones can lead to an increased production of oil, causing acne. While it is a common skin issue, you can take steps to control acne. These include cleaning your face with the right skin cleanser in the morning and at bedtime. You can also see a dermatologist who can prescribe the right products and topical creams to help you control acne during pregnancy.
Hyperpigmentation
Once again, hormone fluctuations are the culprit which can cause hyperpigmentation, among other skin issues. This is due to the increased production of melasma, which causes dark patches on portions of the skin. They commonly appear on the nose and cheeks.
Once again, not all women experience the condition, but specifically those with darker skin tones.
Even though there is no prevention of the skin condition, however, using good sunscreen does help. The skin condition will fade away after pregnancy. If it doesn’t, a dermatologist can certainly help.
Stretch marks
Nearly every pregnant woman will experience stretch marks, which are red streaks that appear on the breasts or belly. Rapid weight gain increases the likelihood of developing these marks, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s guidelines on weight gain. However, genetics also play a significant role in whether or not you’ll get stretch marks.
After giving birth, these marks usually fade to a less noticeable silver or white color. To help prevent stretch marks, keep your skin well-moisturized with cocoa butter or lotion. If you’re considering using an herbal remedy, be sure to consult your doctor beforehand.
Itchy rashes
Itchy rashes are common during pregnancy and are usually found around stretch marks. They usually develop at the end of pregnancy and can also spread to the legs, arms, and buttocks.
While these stretch marks are harmless but can also be discomforting. You need not worry as these usually go away after birth. However, if it is a concern, there are topical creams available that provide relief and prevent it from spreading.
Closing thoughts
The “pregnancy glow” is more than just a charming expression; it has a basis in real physiological changes that occur during pregnancy. The increased blood flow and hormonal fluctuations contribute to that radiant complexion many pregnant women experience. While not every expecting mother will notice this glow, it remains a fascinating aspect of pregnancy that reminds us of the incredible changes a woman’s body undergoes to support new life.
