Third Trimester…Cystic Acne?!

bridie926

Well I've always had a struggle with large acne. On my shoulders, on the neck…but I've been taking great care of my skin, especially through this pregnancy, and so far, my skin has actually been pretty good. Just a few bouts of acne for a few days, but nothing to complain about at all.

Until about 3 days ago, when my face suddenly turned into Cyst Central. What is happening?? I've NEVER in my life had cystic acne. It started with one large one on my lower left cheek, then another bigger one mid-left cheek, then an even bigger one on the lower right cheek. ALL cystic. Is this a typical pregnancy symptom? Or a third trimester symptom? I'm currently 32 weeks pregnant. I'm not sure how to deal with it, and it can be pretty painful at times.

Anyone else ever experience this? Any advice?

PressLove

No advice, but my heart goes out to you.  I hope it clears up soon.

lellymine

I had it occasionally before I was pregnant. Retinoids (not safe while pregnant) and cortisone shots (safe) were the only thing that cured mine. Call a dermatologist and get an appointment. If left too long it'll cause a scar.

babygabe614

Ditto the advice to call a dermatologist. And then just run any Rx they give you by your OB to be safe.

My acne has come and gone in waves throughout my pregnancy, and while I did battle with it beforehand (both cystic and non) I have had times where it's better than normal, and worse than normal. My skin was great for weeks and then suddenly broke out this weekend like crazy. I am going to guess it's just par for the course and everybody is different. Your derm will know best, though. GL

shellbell813

Don't have them often myself but boy do they hurt like a mother! Also I know my mom started having issues with them during one of her pregnancies. Unfortunately they have continued to be a problem for her through menopause. I think it has to do with a hormone imbalance. No advice really because she has yet to figure out a good medicine to help her but good luck.

ksyknelvr73

I get cystic acne regularly, pregnant or not. It sucks so bad. It is mostly hormonal so there really isn't a way to get rid of it for good unless you take serious meds that are not safe or allowed for pregnancy. I was on oral meds for it before TTC, and also birth control helped tremendously. At this point, you will probably just have to suffer through and more than likely you will clear up PP.