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Pregnancy Skin Changes | Pregnancy Power Hour
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Pregnancy Skin Changes

Many pregnant people notice changes in their skin's appearance, including darkening in certain areas and the appearance of new marks, all common and typically temporary shifts.

3 min read

Quick answer

Many pregnant people notice changes in their skin's appearance, including darkening in certain areas and the appearance of new marks, all common and typically temporary shifts.

On this page
  1. What it is
  2. What it tends to feel like
  3. What the evidence says helps
  4. Working with your care team
  • Also: linea nigra
  • Also: pigmentation changes

What it is

During pregnancy, your skin often undergoes noticeable shifts, from the appearance of a dark vertical line on your belly to changes in existing moles and new skin marks. These changes are a normal and common part of the physiological adjustments your body makes to support your growing baby.

One of the most recognized changes is the linea nigra, a dark vertical stripe that can appear on your abdomen, running from your navel down to your pubic area. This tends to become noticeable from the second trimester onward for many pregnant people. It’s a result of increased melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which is the same hormone responsible for other pigmentation changes you might notice. Beyond the linea nigra, you might observe a darkening of your areolae (the area around your nipples), your genitals, and even existing moles.

Additionally, elevated estrogen levels during pregnancy can lead to other visible skin changes. You might notice small, red, web-like patterns known as spider veins, or a general redness on the palms of your hands, called palmar erythema. Some people also find that skin tags, small benign growths, become more common during pregnancy, often in areas of friction. These are all typical occurrences as your body adapts to pregnancy.

What it tends to feel like

For most, these skin changes are primarily visual. You might find yourself noticing them in the mirror, perhaps with a sense of curiosity, surprise, or even a little self-consciousness. It’s completely understandable to have questions about why these changes are happening and what they mean. As a doula, I often hear clients express a mix of wonder and sometimes a desire for clarity around these new bodily experiences, much like when they first encounter sensations like Round Ligament Pain or Heartburn During Pregnancy.

While the darkening itself doesn't typically cause physical discomfort, skin tags, if they appear in areas of constant rubbing or friction, might become slightly bothersome. Generally, these changes don't lead to pain or itching, but they are certainly a visible reminder of the incredible work your body is doing.

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What the evidence says helps

When it comes to managing these skin changes, the approach is often about gentle support and understanding. For any hyperpigmentation, such as the linea nigra or darkened moles, evidence suggests that using a mineral SPF and practicing sun avoidance can help reduce their worsening. Protecting your skin from the sun’s rays is a practical step you can take.

The good news is that most of these pregnancy-related skin changes are temporary. The linea nigra, for instance, typically fades gradually over three to twelve months postpartum. While it often lightens significantly, it may not fully disappear for everyone. Similarly, the darkening of areolae and genitals usually regresses after birth. If skin tags are bothersome, they can be removed by a healthcare provider after your baby is born. This understanding can bring a sense of calm, knowing that many of these shifts are part of a transient phase.

Working with your care team

While most pregnancy skin changes are benign, it’s always wise to keep your care team informed about anything new or concerning you observe. Your provider is your best resource for your specific situation.

It's particularly important to have any mole that is rapidly changing, appears asymmetric, or is bleeding evaluated by your doctor or midwife. While many changes are pregnancy-related, it's essential not to assume this for any concerning mole. They can offer reassurance or further guidance if needed. Just as you would discuss other bodily sensations like Restless Legs in Pregnancy with your provider, bringing up skin concerns ensures you have all the information and support you need to feel confident and clear throughout your pregnancy.

Common questions

What is the linea nigra?+

The linea nigra is a dark vertical line that can appear on your belly during pregnancy, running from your navel downwards. It's a common, temporary pigmentation change caused by increased hormones.

Will my skin changes go away after birth?+

Most pregnancy-related skin changes, like the linea nigra and darkened areas, tend to fade gradually over 3-12 months postpartum. While they often lighten significantly, they may not always fully disappear.

Why do I have new skin tags?+

Skin tags can become more common in pregnancy due to hormonal shifts and increased friction in certain areas. They are benign and can be removed by a provider postpartum if they are bothersome.

Brittany Nance

“Pregnancy is under-supported at every week. This is the kind of clear, calm guidance I give my one-on-one clients — and the questions worth taking back to your provider.”

Brittany Nance · Pregnancy Wellness Consultant · full-spectrum doula

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Written by Brittany Nance, Pregnancy Wellness Consultant· BADT Full Spectrum Doula · Founder, Pregnancy Power Hour
Last reviewed July 15, 2026

This is evidence-informed education from a birth-doula perspective, not medical advice. Always discuss your individual situation with your prenatal care provider.

On this page

  1. What it is
  2. What it tends to feel like
  3. What the evidence says helps
  4. Working with your care team

Keep reading

  • RelatedLinea Nigra in PregnancyThe linea nigra, a common dark line on the belly during pregnancy, is a natural skin change that typically appears in the second trimester and fades gradually postpartum.
  • RelatedMelasma — Mask of PregnancyMelasma, often called the "mask of pregnancy," is a common skin pigmentation that appears as dark patches on the face during the second and third trimesters.
  • RelatedStretch Marks in PregnancyStretch marks are a common and natural part of many pregnancies, often appearing in the later trimesters with a strong genetic link.
  • RelatedPregnancy Stretch MarksPregnancy stretch marks, or striae gravidarum, are a common and natural part of the physical changes many bodies experience during pregnancy.
  • RelatedPregnancy Skin Tags in PregnancyPregnancy skin tags are a common, harmless skin change during pregnancy, often linked to hormonal shifts and increased friction.
  • RelatedPregnancy Acne in PregnancyPregnancy acne, often appearing in the first trimester, is a common experience driven by hormonal changes, and there are gentle, evidence-based ways to support your skin.