Perceptions and Management of Pregnancy-Related Skin Changes: A Cross-Sectional Study on Knowledge, Practices, and Use of Skincare Product

Abstract

Background

Hormonal, metabolic, and immunologic factors may cause several skin changes during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to be aware of these expected changes in their skin appearance in order to prevent unwanted effects and to choose the appropriate preventive or treatment measures via trustable sources of information.

Objective

This study would highlight the most common normal and abnormal physiological skin changes mothers usually complain about before or after pregnancy. The most commonly used skin care products, their sources of knowledge, information, perception, and experiences on these problems and products were also considered. In addition, patient satisfaction levels and their sources and types of knowledge were also investigated.

Methods

Across sectional survey was distributed among women who met the inclusion criteria and were citizens in the Hashimate Kingdom of Jordan. This survey was composed of a number of questions used for investigating participant's socio-demographic characteristics, during and post-pregnancy characteristics and medications used, comparison of skin related complains reported by these women, in addition to their use of skin care products. Women's knowledge, perception, and experience regarding their use of skin care products were also included.

Results

Of the 337 participants in this study, 6.5% and 6.8% of women were using thyroid medications and antihypertensive agents. An increase of around 3% in pregnancy-related skin changes, such as hyperpigmentation, hair loss, cellulite, and wrinkles, was predominant among women. Despite the prevalence of hyperpigmentation, only 4% and 17% of women used depigmentation and sunblock products. Moreover, women declare that their information about the use of skin care products was mainly via social media or self-experience. A low rate of consultation with dermatologists and the reliance on self-diagnosis or non-professional advice were shown.

Conclusion

This study suggests a lack of awareness about effective preventive measures for skin-related disorders commonly occurring during pregnancy, potentially exacerbated by reliance on unverified sources of information, such as social media. Therefore, incorporating education about skin changes into routine prenatal care could empower women to make informed decisions and reduce the stigma associated with these changes.