Is Breaking Out With Pimples After a Missed Period a Sign of Early Pregnancy?

Once the fertilized egg implants on the lining of the uterus, usually between seven and 10 days after ovulation, signs of pregnancy may begin to appear. Among these early pregnancy signs is a noticeable change in skin that may include acne breakouts.

  1. Hormones

    • Pregnant women have one more thing to blame on hormones, skin breakouts. Once a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, the human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) hormone starts being produced. Shortly after, a surge in progesterone occurs and estrogen levels begin to rise. This sudden rise in hormones can cause skin changes, including acne, similar to what happens to adolescents during puberty.

    Other Common Causes

    • While skin breakouts may be an early sign of pregnancy, this certainly is not always the case. In adult women, other changes in hormones may cause breakouts as well. Two of the most common culprits are hormone-based birth control and the onset of menstruation. According to the Mayo Clinic, other causes may be bacteria of the skin, cosmetics and certain medications.

    Determining the Cause

    • Women who are having skin breakouts and suspect a pregnancy may choose to do a home pregnancy test or have a pregnancy test at a physician's office. According to Planned Parenthood, home tests are about 99 percent accurate when done correctly and performed after the woman misses her period. Home tests have varying levels of sensitivity, so women should check the box of the specific test to see when she may use it in relation to the onset of her expected or missed period. If pregnancy is ruled out, women may consult a dermatologist for further evaluation.

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