Nail and skin problems
Many wonderful things will happen to you during your pregnancy, but unfortunately also some slightly less pleasant! Due to the increased hormones during pregnancy, your nails and skins may undergo some changes and need a little extra care and attention.
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| Symptom | Possible problem | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Itching or chafed skin | The skin of your extended abdomen may become quite itchy when you’re pregnant, and the area between your thighs may become chafed. | Massage your skin with baby lotion to stimulate the blood supply and soothe irritation. Keep the skin on your thighs dry, dust with powder, and wear cotton underwear. |
| Rashes | A rash in your groin and under your breasts can be caused by excess weight gain and the sweat that gathers in the folds of your skin. Not washing often enough increases the risk. | Keep your groin area and the skin under your breasts clean, and apply calamine or other drying lotion. Wear a good bra that supports your breasts properly. |
| Pigmentation | Many women find that their skin pigmentation changes when they’re pregnant; this particularly affects areas that already darker, such as moles and the areolae of your breasts. | Use a sun block to protect your skin from the ultraviolet rays in sunlight. The extra pigmentation will disappear after the birth. |
| Nails | Your fingernails grow faster than usual when you’re pregnant. They may also become brittle and split, or break more easily than they did before your pregnancy. | Keep your nails short and well trimmed. Wear gloves when you’re washing dishes or working in the garden. |
Posted 30.06.2010
See more in the dossier: A beautiful pregnancy
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