Your body

Is the “pregnancy glow” real?

Checked against the sources listed on this page. Not reviewed by a clinician. Last updated 5 November 2026. How we check.

Partly true

Partly. Around 40–50% more blood volume and more active oil glands can make skin look flushed and dewy. Not everyone gets it.

Increased circulation brings more blood close to the skin’s surface, and hormones increase oil production. That can mean a glow, or breakouts.

References

We found no study that tests this directly, so this answer rests on general biology and the lack of evidence for the claim.

Related weeks

Week 14

More your body myths

Myth

Does morning sickness only happen in the morning?

No. For most people, pregnancy nausea can strike at any time of day, and for some it lasts all day.

 Myth

Does having no pregnancy symptoms mean something is wrong?

No. Many people have healthy pregnancies with few or no symptoms, especially early on.

 Myth

Can raising your arms above your head wrap the cord around the baby’s neck?

No. Your arm movements have no effect on the umbilical cord. Cords around the neck (nuchal cords) are common and happen from the baby’s own movements.