The Dermatology Series: Growths, Lumps & Bumps. Series 6 of 7

Any new or changing moles or growths should be inspected by your doctor and if necessary, a test will be done to make sure they are benign. This can often be left to after delivery, but do seek advice early if concerned.

These are small, soft, flesh-colored hanging growths are most likely to begin appearing on skin surfaces that are usually hot, moist, or frequently rubbed. Skin tags most commonly appear in the folds of the neck, in the armpits, on your torso torso, beneath the breasts, or in the genitals. The (only) good news is that they are almost always benign and the inconvenience is cosmetic in nature only.

Skin tags are actually caused by hyperactive growth of a superficial layer of skin. They are also prevalent in older people (especially ladies ) as well as expectant mothers.In the case of Mums to be the growth of skin tags is most likely spurred on by hormonal changes. Skin tags are not usually painful unless they become twisted, irritated, or inflamed, most often by clothing or jewelry rubbing against them.

Although there is nothing you can do to prevent the growth of skin tags during pregnancy they are relatively easy to remove after baby is born. Removal involves a simple procedure called electrocautery or laser removal that can be done within half an hour.