How Pregnancy Trauma Can Induce Vitiligo

After my first pregnancy, I discovered that I was anemic due to blood loss from delivering my first child. At that time, I had no idea that B12 would be crucial in reducing my white patches. Following my third pregnancy, I learned that my vitamin D levels were low, not realizing that this vitamin was essential for restoring my melanin. I hoped my skin would recover during my pregnancy.

Armed with this knowledge, we conducted a random poll last year on our social media to see how many women experienced vitiligo during or after pregnancy. The results were astonishing, as many women reported noticing white patches or an increase in patches on their skin during this time.

Anemia can be another underlying trigger for vitiligo. Conditions such as anemia or pernicious anemia can lead to the emergence of white patches. The body has the ability to return to balance if one understands that pregnancy can be a traumatic experience that may lead to anemia due to blood loss. In such cases, doctors should suggest treatments to rebuild blood levels, and B12 is particularly important. If levels are low, a physician knowledgeable about vitiligo can recommend appropriate treatment. Unfortunately, my doctors were unaware of vitiligo at that time, and if left untreated, it can spread rapidly.

As always, we hope this information proves useful. Awareness is essential! Please feel free to share and post!

About

Natasha Pierre McCarthy is the proud founder of National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation (Vitiligo Bond), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals with vitiligo. Inspired by her work as a Christian business professor and teaching from her pastor, she transformed her vision from God into reality by creating a platform that educates, uplifts, and connects those affected by vitiligo. Vitiligo Bond raises awareness through innovative educational initiatives, including Vitiligo 101 sessions at Emory University with Dr. Holla, community events, social media outreach, partnerships with support groups, and collaborations with public figures and state leaders. By fostering a strong sense of community, Vitiligo Bond ensures that no one living with vitiligo feels alone. Through dedicated advocacy efforts, Vitiligo Bond—alongside passionate advocate volunteers—has played a key role in spearheading and securing Governor Proclamations in multiple states, officially recognizing Vitiligo Awareness in Colorado, Georgia, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia... The organization has helped start up support groups and nonprofits nationally and internationally. In addition, well known business brands have consulted and used models from the organization to represent their products and to help destigmatize vitiligo. Additionally, the organization has been recognized by Congressman Hank Johnson, who supported efforts to gain national recognition for vitiligo awareness. This advocacy contributed to President Barack Obama acknowledging Vitiligo Awareness during the month of June. Currently, further legislative efforts have been initiated to address bullying. Natasha believes that everyone is created with a purpose and deserves to live a full, vibrant life. “We all have the ability to shine.” Vitiligo Bond remains committed to raising awareness, destigmatizing vitiligo, advocating for youth who experience bullying, and supporting men and women struggling with self-acceptance. Through its platform, the organization also assist in research efforts to uncover the cause and ultimately find a cure for vitiligo.

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