Birthmarks Q&As

• Simon C, Everitt H, Kendrick T. Oxford Handbook of General Practice. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2006: 664.
• Atherton DJ. Congenital melanocytic naevi. www.birthmarksupportgroup.org.uk, accessed 14 January 2008.

Can laser treatment help?

Yes, although there is a chance that if you have a port wine stain it may return later on.

Explanation

In a significant number of cases laser treatment can reduce the intensity of the mark, although there is a chance the mark will return when the child reaches puberty.

Laser treatment for port wine stains can be carried out at any age, although it's usually best to start it as early as possible - the younger the child is when treatment begins the better.

You will usually have either a local or general anaesthetic before treatment to minimise the discomfort. Local anaesthesia completely blocks feeling from the area and you will stay awake during the operation. General anaesthesia means you will be asleep during the operation and feel no pain.

You are likely to have some discomfort after laser treatment and you may have a bruise in the short term.

Sources

• Vascular birthmarks - salmon patches, port wine stains and strawberry marks. British Association of Dermatologists. www.bad.org.uk, accessed 28 January 2008.
• Vascular birthmarks. British Skin Foundation. www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk, accessed 28 January 2008.

Is there anything that can be done to stop a baby being born with a birthmark?

No, a birthmark is just something that happens when some babies are developing.

Explanation

The exact reasons why some babies develop birthmarks aren't fully understood at present. Birthmarks can't be prevented and it's not your fault if your child is born with one.

Sources

• Congenital melanocytic naevi. Atherton DJ. www.birthmarksupportgroup.org.uk, accessed 28 January 2008

Do many people have visible birthmarks and does it affect their future life?

Yes, more people than you might think have a visible birthmark and most of them lead a normal life.

Explanation

Although growing up with a birthmark may produce challenges for a child, most will cope without experiencing any major problems. Much can depend on the attitude of the parents in building up their child's confidence and self-esteem.

There are a number of support groups which can offer advice and support. Some of them run mentoring programmes for children growing up with a birthmark.

Further information

• The Birthmark Support Group
  0845 045 4700
  www.birthmarksupportgroup.org.uk

Related topics

• Birthmarks

This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Dr James Quekett Bsc MBChB MRCGP DRCOG DFFP, General Practitioner (GP) and GP Appraiser, and by Bupa doctors. It has been patient reviewed by the Birthmark Support Group. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: November 2008.