Skin blemishes in women during pregnancy and puerperium [Manchas na pele em mulheres no ciclo gravídico puerperal]

Abstract

This descriptive quantitative study was designed to investigate the appearance of blemishes in pregnancy, trace the condition's development, and describe its effects after childbirth. The survey was conducted in primary health care clinics in São Paulo City. The data, which form part of a broader study, were collected in the first half of 2010 using a form completed by the researchers. Of the sample of 234 women, 104(44.4%) mentioned the appearance of pregnancy blemishes. The vast majority expressed annoyance at the problem, and the emotional dimension was the most affected. Most participants adopted no preventive measures during the prenatal period, and received no guidance on this matter. The results reflect a need for greater attention and planning of interventions by health care programs for skin problems that are considered of low lethality and often neglected.