From the Guidelines
The hormone that makes women appear to be "glowing" during pregnancy is primarily estrogen, with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) also playing a role in the associated metabolic changes. During pregnancy, estrogen levels increase dramatically, causing increased blood flow throughout the body, particularly to the skin [ 1 ]. This enhanced circulation brings more blood to the skin's surface, creating a flushed, radiant appearance often described as the "pregnancy glow." Additionally, the increased oil production stimulated by estrogen can give the skin a shinier, more luminous quality. Progesterone also plays a supporting role by helping to retain water, which can make the skin appear fuller and more hydrated. While hCG is produced by trophoblastic cells during pregnancy [ 2 ], its primary role is not directly related to the "glowing" appearance, but rather to stimulate the ovary to continue producing progesterone, supporting the growth of the embryo. However, elevated levels of hCG have been associated with hyperemesis gravidarum, a condition that can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances [ 1 ]. Some studies suggest that other hormones, such as human placental lactogen (HPL), may also contribute to the metabolic changes that affect skin appearance during pregnancy. However, the current evidence does not provide a clear understanding of the role of these hormones in the "pregnancy glow" [ 1 ]. Key points to consider:
- Estrogen plays a primary role in the "pregnancy glow" due to increased blood flow and oil production
- Progesterone supports the "glow" by helping to retain water and make the skin appear fuller and more hydrated
- hCG is produced during pregnancy, but its primary role is not directly related to the "glowing" appearance
- Other hormones, such as HPL, may contribute to the metabolic changes that affect skin appearance during pregnancy, but more research is needed to understand their role.
From the Research
Hormones Involved in Pregnancy
The hormone that makes women look like they are glowing during pregnancy is not directly mentioned in the provided studies. However, some studies suggest that certain hormones may play a role in the physical changes that occur during pregnancy.
- Estradiol (E2) and progesterone levels are higher in women during early pregnancy, which may contribute to the physical changes associated with pregnancy 3.
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that is produced during pregnancy, but its role in the physical changes associated with pregnancy is not clearly established 4, 5, 6, 7.
Physical Changes During Pregnancy
The physical changes that occur during pregnancy, such as the "glowing" appearance, may be attributed to a combination of factors, including:
- Increased blood volume and circulation, which can give the skin a healthy and radiant appearance.
- Changes in hormone levels, such as increased estradiol and progesterone, which can affect the skin and hair.
- Improved nutrition and health habits during pregnancy, which can also contribute to a healthy and glowing appearance.
Limitations of the Studies
The provided studies do not directly address the question of which hormone makes women look like they are glowing during pregnancy. The studies primarily focus on the role of hCG, estradiol, and progesterone in early pregnancy assessment and viability, rather than their effects on physical appearance. Therefore, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between hormones and physical changes during pregnancy.