These are the strangest changes you may experience in your skin during pregnancy.

Although they are temporary and disappear after childbirth, the hormonal and physiological effects a woman experiences during pregnancy are visibly reflected in her skin . Especially in the second trimester, several very noticeable changes often occur, some of which may be surprising. These are the strangest changes you may notice on your skin.

In addition to increased blood flow, pregnancy causes a significant increase in hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH), which is responsible for the darkening of certain areas and the appearance of melasma. These changes begin to become more evident in the second trimester, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Among them, one of the most unusual phenomena is the appearance of the linea nigra (black line), a dark band that extends from the pubis to the navel, and sometimes to the upper abdomen. This darkening is due to an increase in melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH).

In addition, many women experience melasma or chloasma, colloquially known as the "mask of pregnancy," which manifests as brown spots on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip, also due to increased melanin.

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Another common change is stretch marks, which form when the skin stretches rapidly. Stretch marks can appear on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and buttocks. Although they can't be completely prevented, they can be diminished with proper hydration and care. Hyperpigmentation, characterized by the darkening of areas such as the linea alba, areolas, and external genitalia, can also be common at this stage, especially in women with darker skin.

Spider veins, small red or purple veins on the skin, may also appear due to increased blood volume and vessel dilation during pregnancy.

Although many of these changes seem surprising, it's important to remember that most are temporary and disappear after delivery. However, experts warn that sun exposure can worsen these changes, so they recommend using sunscreen.

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What other changes occur in the second trimester?

Some of the more particular changes in the mother we can find: ▪️Possible growth of body hair in new areas. ▪️Increased appetite and recovery or increase in sexual desire. ▪️The first perception of fetal movements may be noticed around week 20. ▪️Changes in the skin, such as nasal congestion or nosebleeds due to hormones. ▪️Increase in normal vaginal discharge (leucorrhea). ▪️Back and foot pain due to weight gain and postural changes. ▪️Appearance of varicose veins and hemorrhoids due to uterine pressure and circulatory changes.