What should prenatal educators emphasize about the changes in skin appearance during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, hormonal shifts play a significant role in various physiological changes, including those affecting the skin. Specifically, increased levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone can lead to various skin conditions, such as melasma (also known as "mask of pregnancy"), linea nigra, and other pigmentation changes.

Emphasizing the impact of hormonal changes helps pregnant individuals understand that these shifts are a normal part of the pregnancy experience. This knowledge can alleviate concerns about sudden or unexpected changes in skin appearance, as many of these changes are temporary and often resolve postpartum. Additionally, educating about these changes fosters a sense of acceptance and reassurance that such alterations are common among many women during pregnancy, irrespective of individual factors like prior pregnancy experience.