Pregnant and really worried about a mole... Should this be of great concern to m!

Expecting Baby Boy May 2011,
If the mole is not round or oval shaped, and the mole is not symmetrical, this may delineate the difference between a mole and skin cancer. Moles that have blurred edges, or an unsymmetrical form are more likely to be cancerous, though this is not always the case. At the very least, these moles should be examined by a doctor and possibly scrapings of the mole should be evaluated for cancerous cells. There are three types of skin cancer. The two most common types, in addition to the less common melanoma, are basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer. Basal and squamous cell cancer tend not to be dangerous to the other systems of the body. While these types of cancer may have mole-like characteristics, there are usually some differences. Basal cell skin cancer often appears as a pearl-coloured bump or red patch, or a patch of thickened or scar-like skin. Squamous cell cancer begins as a small bump that grows slowly, the centre of which usually develops an ulcer or sore that does not heal. Whilst they should be removed, they do not warrant unnecessary panic. Check your freckles and moles every 30 days and take note of what they look like also if any of them have changed. Change can mean a potential problem. Use the ABCDE method [from the American Academy of Dermatology] – (A) -Asymmetrical: When you draw a line down the middle of your mole, the two sides should mirror each other. (B) - Irregular border: Moles should have a definite border. Melanoma borders usually have notches or scallop shapes. (C) - Changes in colour: A mole might be dangerous if you notice the colour isn't consistent throughout. (D) - Diameter: A mole should be no larger than ? inch (6.35 mm) in diameter. (E) - Evolving: A mole that sometimes changes in shape, colour, height or texture is suspect. If you develop a new mole and it starts to itch or burn, it could be a sign that it's not healthy Any mole that is asymmetrical, has an irregular border, changes in colour, size, shape, height or texture, hurts or oozes fluids or blood should be shown to your doctor. During your appointment, your doctor may perform a complete skin check. There are a few things that you should keep in mind in addition to these physical signs. You may be at high risk for developing melanoma if you have dysplastic moles. These moles are larger than ? inch (6.35 mm), have dark centres and irregular borders. Often they are hereditary, so other members of your family may have them as well. Even a single dysplastic mole will mean your risk of developing melanoma has doubled. If you have a family history of skin cancer or more than 50 moles, you also are at an increased risk. The fact that you are seeing a dermatologist soon makes one wonder why you even posted your question. Why you should have even considered putting antibiotic ointment or cream on it beggars belief. How do you know that it is a bacterial infection? Do you know that putting antibiotics on the skin, which is porous and easily absorbs medications, when it is not necessary adds to the chance of a resistance to that/those antibiotics and also to the chance of an allergic reaction in the future? During pregnancy the levels of a hormone that stimulates the pigment-producing cells, to make more melanin, is raised. This causes the areas of the skin that are usually darker before pregnancy, (such as the area around your nipples), to get even darker. It also means that moles and freckles can become darker and more noticeable. Some changes to moles are not related to pregnancy though. Write your questions down and take them with you when you see your dermatologist. I wish you well.


ALL ANSWERS SHOULD BE THOROUGHLY RESEARCHED, IN ANY FORUM AND ESPECIALLY IN THIS ONE. - MANY ANSWERS ARE FLAWED.

It is extremely important to obtain an accurate diagnosis before trying to find a cure. Many diseases and conditions share common symptoms.


The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Hope this helps
matador 89