Changes in Moles During Pregnancy
Hello everyone. I'm a 34-year-old female, currently at around 30 weeks into my pregnancy, weighing approximately 60 kg and standing 159 cm tall. I've had this particular mole for as long as I can remember, but recently it has started to grow slightly larger and darker. While I'm aware that it’s not unusual for moles to undergo changes during pregnancy, my history with melanoma heightens my concerns about any alterations. This mole is situated on the back of my neck, near my hairline, and measures about 0.5 cm or 5 mm in size. I do have a dermatology consultation scheduled for next month, but unfortunately, I couldn’t secure an earlier appointment. I appreciate your input and will share a picture in the comments. Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/16/2025, 4:20:34 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about changes in moles, especially given your history with melanoma. While it’s true that hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to certain alterations in moles, it’s important to monitor these changes closely due to your medical history.
Key Points:
- Moles can change during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations.
- Your history of melanoma warrants careful observation of any mole changes.
Explanation: Changes in size, color, or texture of a mole can be related to various factors, including pregnancy, but they can also signal other issues. Since you've noticed that your mole is growing slightly larger and darker, it's wise to keep a close eye on it, especially since you have a history of melanoma.
Next Steps:
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Self-Monitoring: Over the next few weeks, take note of any additional changes to the mole, such as further growth, changes in color, irregular borders, itching, or bleeding. Document these changes with dates and details.
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Avoid Irritation: Try to limit any friction or irritation to the area of the mole by wearing loose clothing or avoiding hairstyles that may pull on the neck.
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Consult Your Dermatologist: Prepare for your upcoming dermatology consultation by gathering any relevant information about the mole's changes and your medical history, which will help the dermatologist assess it accurately.
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Stay Informed: Consider familiarizing yourself with the ABCDE criteria for moles (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than 6mm, Evolving shape or size) to better assess any future changes.
While waiting for your appointment, these steps can help you stay proactive about monitoring your health. If any alarmingly severe symptoms arise, such as pain or significant changes abruptly, be prepared to seek immediate evaluation. Your health and peace of mind are important during this time.
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