Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Pregnancy induces physiological changes that often impact skin health, leading to both the onset and exacerbation of dermatological conditions. Despite potential implications for maternal well‐being and foetal outcomes, evidence‐based treatment and skincare guidance during pregnancy remain limited.
Objectives
To investigate the prevalence of dermatological diseases, treatment patterns and changes in disease activity during pregnancy, with particular focus on whether physician counselling influences continuation of treatment. We also explored concerns about product safety and sources of information.
Methods
A cross‐sectional questionnaire‐based study was conducted among pregnant women attending routine ultrasound examinations at Aarhus University Hospital from October 2024 to January 2025. The questionnaire addressed demographics, dermatological conditions and treatment, skincare practices, concerns and informational sources.
Results
A total of 273 pregnant women responded. One third (33.7%) reported having an active dermatological condition within 1 year prior to pregnancy confirmation; most prevalent were atopic dermatitis (11%), acne (9.2%) and hand eczema (7.3%). More than half of the women (56%) experienced symptom worsening during pregnancy, yet only 24% consulted a healthcare professional. Following pregnancy confirmation, 57.6% discontinued treatment—81.1% without consulting a healthcare professional. Physician consultation was significantly associated with continued treatment (RR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.55−4.44,
p
= 0.0005) and identified as protective against treatment discontinuation (OR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.03−0.40,
p
= 0.001). Concerns about product safety were common (16.9% for emollients; 35.9% for prescription medication). The majority relied on online sources (50.2%) for information, while 13.9% received professional guidance.
Conclusions
There are substantial gaps in dermatological care and skincare guidance during pregnancy. Many women experienced worsening of their dermatological diseases during pregnancy, and many discontinued their treatment without professional input. These findings emphasize the need for evidence‐based information and patient‐centred communication to support informed decision‐making and to improve maternal and foetal health outcomes.