Pregnancy brings many physical and hormonal changes, and it is completely natural to become more aware of your body — particularly the genital area. Discovering a new lump, bump, or dark spot can understandably cause concern, especially during such a sensitive time.
One condition that may first appear or become more noticeable during pregnancy is Angiokeratoma of Fordyce. Although the name sounds alarming, these lesions are benign (non-cancerous) and relatively common. This guide explains why they can occur during pregnancy, how to recognise them, and when it may be appropriate to seek professional advice.
What is Angiokeratoma of Fordyce?
Angiokeratoma of Fordyce refers to small, firm vascular skin lesions caused by dilated blood vessels close to the surface of the skin, with some thickening of the overlying skin.
During pregnancy, they are most often noticed on the vulva, particularly the labia majora.
They typically appear as:
- Small dome-shaped or flat spots, usually 1–4 mm in size
- Colours ranging from bright red to dark purple, blue, or black
- Single lesions or small clusters
- A smooth or slightly roughened surface
Importantly:
- They are not an infection
- They are not sexually transmitted
- They pose no risk to your pregnancy or baby
Why Does Angiokeratoma of Fordyce During Pregnancy Occur?
It is common for angiokeratomas to become more noticeable during pregnancy due to normal physiological changes, including:
1. Increased blood volume
During pregnancy, circulating blood volume increases significantly to support the developing baby. This added volume can place pressure on small blood vessels near the skin surface.
2. Increased pelvic pressure
As the uterus grows, pressure on the veins in the pelvis increases. This can cause superficial blood vessels in the vulval area to dilate, making angiokeratomas more visible.
3. Hormonal changes
Pregnancy hormones can affect blood vessel tone and skin structure, contributing to vascular changes in the genital area.
In many cases, angiokeratomas that appear or worsen during pregnancy may stabilise or become less prominent after delivery, once pelvic pressure reduces.
Identifying the Difference
Because angiokeratomas are dark in colour, they are sometimes mistaken for other conditions, such as genital warts or pigmented skin lesions.
In general:
- Angiokeratomas tend to be dark red, purple, or black and may bleed if scratched
- Genital warts (HPV) are usually skin-coloured or pink and have a rough or cauliflower-like texture
That said, genital skin changes can be difficult to diagnose without examination. For reassurance and safety, any new or changing lesion should be assessed by a healthcare professional experienced in genital dermatology.
Management and Support
For most people, Angiokeratoma of Fordyce during pregnancy does not require treatment. The lesions are harmless and often cause no symptoms.
Reasons someone may seek advice include:
- Bleeding, particularly if lesions are caught during shaving, washing, or friction from clothing
- Anxiety or concern about the appearance or diagnosis
If bleeding occurs, simple measures such as gentle pressure are usually sufficient. Scratching or attempting to treat the lesions at home is not recommended.
Treatment options and timing
If treatment is considered due to frequent bleeding or significant distress, options such as hyfrecation may be discussed. Hyfrecation uses a controlled electrical current to seal the affected blood vessel.
During pregnancy, however, we take a cautious, individualised approach:
- Treatment is not usually urgent
- Many patients choose to delay intervention until after delivery
- This allows time to see whether lesions improve naturally postpartum
If treatment is being considered, your clinician will carefully discuss:
- The expected benefits
- Potential risks
- Whether deferring treatment may be the most appropriate option
Your comfort, safety, and peace of mind remain the priority.
Your Path to Reassurance
If you notice new vulval skin changes during pregnancy and feel worried, the best first step is to seek professional reassurance. This may be through:
Often, a brief examination is all that is needed to confirm the diagnosis and provide reassurance.
Final thoughts
Angiokeratoma of Fordyce during pregnancy is a benign and relatively common finding, linked to normal changes in blood flow and pelvic pressure. While they can look alarming, they are not harmful to you or your baby.
If something doesn’t feel right, or if a skin change is causing anxiety, you deserve clear answers and supportive care. We are here to provide a confidential, non-judgemental space where your concerns are taken seriously and addressed with evidence-based advice.
If you are unsure about any genital skin change during pregnancy, seeking professional assessment is always the safest and most reassuring choice.
