Birthmarks are blemishes that are commonly seen in newborns. It is said that everyone has some kind of a birthmark, which is prominent either at birth or surfaces after a few months of birth. These marks can be patches of discolored skin that fade away gradually or may last for a lifetime. There are several types of birthmarks and each birthmark is unique in size, shape and color. Commonly birthmarks fall under two categories - Vascular birthmarks and Pigmented Birthmarks. Also Read: Birth Defects - Causes, Solutions and Cure

Vascular Birthmarks

Vascular marks are usually pink, red or bluish in color and are caused by abnormalities of blood vessels inside or under the skin. The color and presence of these marks depend on depth of the blood vessels. They are mainly visible on the face or otherwise on the neck and head. Some common types of vascular birthmarks are:

#1. Salmon Patches

Image Source: The Primary Care Dermatology Society These are the most common types of vascular birthmarks that are usually red or pink in color and flat in nature. They appear on neck and are called “stork bites” which last up to adulthood. The ones on the eyelids or forehead are called “angel kisses” and disappear by around two years of age. These marks are formed by the dilated capillaries near the surface of the skin and are noticeable when the baby cries or when there is a change in the body temperature.

#2. Infantile Haemangioma

Image Source: Infantile Hemangioma Any growth composed of blood cells is called haemangioma. These marks are flat and raised lesions and are small hence, not very noticeable or disfiguring. These marks are usually common in girls and twins. Infantile haemangioma is commonly called “strawberry mark”, it appears during birth, and disappears eventually.

#3. Port Wine Stains

Image Source: annekokusu These are rare in nature and greatly vary in their size from few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. They are usually formed on the chest, back and face. They are deeply colored and permanent in nature. Port wine stains are very sensitive to hormonal changes and can become more visible during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.

Pigmented Birthmarks

Pigmented birthmarks are caused by clustered pigmented cells in the body and may be brown or black in color.

Common types of pigmented birthmarks are:

#1. Café-au-lait-spots

These spots are coffee colored patches and it is common to have one or more of these appearing on the skin. They usually disappear with time and may darken in color due to sun exposure. Also Read: How to identify allergies in children

#2. Moles

Moles are clusters of skin cells and may sometimes be hairy in appearance. They may be flat or raised and black or brown in color. These marks usually appear after birth, though moles called “congenital naevi” can be present at the time of birth. They can also increase in their size and further become raised with time.

#3. Mongolian Spots

These birthmarks are present by birth and are large, flat areas of extra pigment usually appearing on areas of back and buttocks. They may not be permanent and would disappear by the age of 4. These birthmarks are harmless and are often mistaken for a bruise. Myths And Facts About Birthmarks Although there is no particular science behind the appearance of birthmarks, there are several myths that revolve around their shapes, cause, and purpose all around the world. Let’s have a look at a few myths and the facts behind birthmarks.

Myth 1: Birthmarks Are Caused By Unfulfilled Cravings Of Expectant Mothers During Pregnancy

Fact: Although there is no known cause for a birthmark, its translation in most of the cultures means a wish or a desire. Hence, they are said to be an unfilled wish or a cravings of expectant mothers. However, there are no activities of the expectant mothers that influence the formation of a birthmark. Science explains birthmarks as clustered pigment cells or abnormalities in blood vessels. Also Read: Top 10 Reasons for Low Birth Weight in Babies

Myth 2: Birthmark Signifies The Character Of The Child

Fact: This is a very common belief that the place of a birthmark on the skin can point out the characteristic traits of a child. A mark on abdomen signifies hunger, on the back it signifies open mindedness, on the chin it denotes success, etc. However, these beliefs have not been proven till date. It is important to notice that not all individuals having similar birthmarks possess the same characteristics.

Myth: All Birthmarks Are Harmless

Fact: Though most of the birthmarks are harmless, some may need medical attention if they grow or enlarge abnormally. If the marks are malignant, they may also become cancerous and are strongly advised to be removed immediately. Some birthmarks like haemangioma may block airways, affect vision or may become ulcerated. Under such circumstances, their removal at the earliest is suggested. There are several myths about birthmarks that differ from culture to culture. The shape, size, color or location of these birthmarks scientifically do not prove any myths right and have no evidence to their beliefs. The only fact behind the birth marks is that they are harmless until they show any signs of malignancy. Their removal in other cases totally remains a personal choice. Want to share your mommy experience with other moms through words or images? Become a part of the Moms United community. Click here and we will get in touch with you

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