2.7.12

Dermatological Manifestations

So I have had a pretty smooth pregnancy so far, for which I am extremely grateful! However, there is one symptom that I have been experiencing - acne.

Ever since Junior High, I have dealt with acne. Never severe, but mild to moderate acne that is very persistent. I know that my acne is at least partially hormonally related, because going on the Pill helped my pimples and when I stopped taking it to get pregnant, I noticed an increase in pimples. And so, ever since about 5 weeks, I have had an increase in my acne. Not just on my face (although that's the worst!), but also on my shoulders and back, where I don't usually have an issue with pimples. What a pain! I know it's a very common side-effect, but I had hoped that my acne might lessen during pregnancy. So far, I have not been that lucky. And I have read that certain acne treatments are safe during pregnancy, but I am hesitant to use them nevertheless. I have used benzoyl peroxide a handful of times, and I can see results when I do, but I am leaning more towards just dealing with it until after delivery so I don't worry about it affecting Baby's development. The past couple of days I actually used pure aloe vera gel (not the green stuff you use for a sunburn, I am talking about the drinkable, refrigerated kind) on my face to see if dryness was a factor. I can see it helping a little (I think), but still... acne. It's worth it, because it means my hormones are in overdrive making a BABY, but it's still a pain.

Also, this weekend, I think I started to show a little more. I still look pretty much the same and my clothes fit, more or less, but I think my expanding uterus is starting to shift everything else around. I am trying to be conscious about eating enough protein - I don't eat very much meat, so that leaves me with eggs, dairy, beans, and quinoa. Any other non-meat protein source suggestions?

4 comments:

Emilie said...

Go for Greek yogurt. Tons of protein for such a small container and there are tons of options out there these days!

em said...

I have been considering giving that a try! I will have to get one and see how I like it :) I have some regular yogurt to get through first, but next time I go to the grocery store I'll pick one up!

Ashley R. said...

Peanuts, cashews, almonds!

em said...

So I may not have mentioned that I don't eat nuts... I do eat peanut butter! But I know, there are definitely days I wish I ate nuts for that quick and portable protein boost. Shucks... Thanks for the suggestions, though!