How to Handle Itchy Skin During Pregnancy?

This article discusses the common issue of itchy skin during pregnancy, including the factors that cause it, prevention measures, and the appropriate time to seek medical help. It offers practical instructions to relieve and maintain skin health during this transitional period.

Pregatips
Itchy skin is something that everyone has experienced at some time in their lives, but it is more prevalent during pregnancy. Your skin is gently stretching to accommodate your expanding belly, which might cause itching. While most pregnancy-related itching may be attributed to expanding skin, a few health issues might cause discomfort as well. So, how do you know whether it's simply a pregnancy symptom or requires a trip to the doctor?



Here's everything you need to know about how to deal with itchy skin when pregnant:


What Causes Itchy Skin During Pregnancy?

There are several reasons why you may feel itchy when pregnant. These may include:

  • Skin Stretches: First pregnancies and multiple pregnancies cause the skin to expand much more than usual.
  • Dryness: Hormonal changes during pregnancy might result in itchy, flaky, dry skin
  • Perfumes Or Textiles: Various materials, textures & fragranced products have the potential to irritate your skin
  • Hormones: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect your mood, and circulation and even cause your skin to get itchy
  • Cholestasis: This is a liver condition that may lead to a buildup of bile acids in the blood, causing itching


Pruritic urticarial papules and pregnancy plaques (PUPPP)

This itchy rash appears around stretch marks in late pregnancy. Symptoms of PUPPP include a rash with small, pimple-like spots that develop from stretch marks and do not extend beyond the breasts, blisters surrounding the rash and itching during sleep.
Typically, your doctor will diagnose PUPPP via a skin check. In rare circumstances, a skin biopsy may be required. Blood tests to rule out infections may also be performed.

The most effective treatment for PUPPP is to give birth, as this makes the rash go away within weeks. Moisturisers, steroid creams, antihistamines prescribed by your doctor and itch-relieving baths may help alleviate itching until your due date.

Prurigo

Crusty, itchy lumps on the arms, legs, or belly may emerge during any trimester. Symptoms of Purigo include itching, and crusty pimples on the arms, legs, or stomach. While moisturisers might assist with prurigo itch, the most common treatments are topical steroids and oral antihistamines. If you experienced prurigo during one pregnancy, you are more likely to develop it again. While it may go away quickly after delivery, it may sometimes remain for weeks or even months.

If you have acute itching or itching for an extended period of time throughout your pregnancy, you should see your obstetrician and dermatologist. They can prescribe medication, rule out certain ailments, and ensure your child's safety.

Common Areas for Itching

Consider where you are itching on your body. Most pregnancies cause itching in the abdomen and breasts because the skin in these areas is changing so rapidly.

Itching around stretch marks may be caused by PUPPP, however itchy arm and leg regions are more likely to be caused by clothes touching you incorrectly or prurigo.

Itching is natural at times, but severe itching of the belly, arms, and legs may indicate that your body needs treatment. Some women have vaginal itching during pregnancy, which may need treatment. Furthermore, rashes may develop as a result of these symptoms.

Itching is not commonly seen as an early pregnancy symptom. In reality, many forms of rashes occur later in pregnancy, and some may not disappear until after the baby is delivered.

However, if you have extreme or continuous itching throughout your pregnancy, contact your doctor right away.


How to Prevent Itching During Pregnancy?

If you have itchy skin during pregnancy, you don't have to suffer through it as there are various at-home cures to try.

Apply A Thick Skin Cream

While there is no danger in using your regular body lotion, we recommend doing thorough research on the ingredients to check if they are safe for pregnancy.

Look For Moisturisers Containing Petrolatum

This substance creates a protective barrier around your skin, enabling it to restore itself and prevent future water loss.

Try an unscented laundry detergent

Some detergents, particularly scented ones, may irritate and cause itchy skin during pregnancy. Use a soft, unscented detergent to see if it helps.

Try Cold Packs

There is no conclusive evidence that this helps, although using ice packs or a cold cloth in particularly uncomfortable regions should provide some relief.

Add Cornflour To Your Bath

Another natural remedy? Sprinkle cornflour into your bath. Studies do not support this, but it is believed that it may help alleviate some of the itch. Please check with your doctor before doing this.

Take an antihistamine

It's always important to consult your doctor before taking any medicine while pregnant, but antihistamines are typically considered safe for expectant mothers. It may also aid in your sleep if the itching is keeping you up at night.

If your itching is caused by a medical condition such as cholestasis, there is only so much you can do to avoid it. However, if the itching is caused by skin stretching, there are a few techniques to keep it at bay:

  • Use a humidifier in your bedroom: This may help restore moisture to the air and your skin
  • Take a brief Shower: Aim for 10 minutes or less, and avoid using really hot water, which might irritate your skin
  • Use gentle cleaners: Cleansers that are devoid of soap and fragrances are often gentler on the skin
  • Wear a breathable fabric: Allowing your skin to breathe may help reduce itchy skin during pregnancy


Common Skin Conditions during Pregnancy

Hyperpigmentation

This disorder causes darkening of the skin due to an increase in melanin, the component in the body responsible for colour (pigment). Pregnancy increases your body's melanin levels.

Melasma (sometimes called chloasma)

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation. It generates tan or brown spots, which are frequently seen on the face. This condition is so widespread among pregnant women that it's dubbed "the mask of pregnancy."

Stretch Marks

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are scars that appear on skin that has been stretched by pregnancy or weight increase, or reduced by severe weight reduction. Stretch marks normally look reddish or purple at the beginning, but gradually become less prominent and may appear silver.

Skin Tags

A skin tag is a tiny flap of tissue attached to your skin by a stalk. They are most often seen on the neck, chest, back, beneath the breasts, and in the crotch. They are prevalent in pregnant women and normally do not cause discomfort until something rubs on them.
Conditions like acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis may worsen during pregnancy. They should improve with the delivery of the child.

Varicose Veins

Hormonal changes during pregnancy may generate these twisted, swollen veins, which are most noticeable in the legs.

Pemphigoid Gestation

Blisters occur on your abdomen and may spread to other regions. This condition may increase your risk of problems, such as premature delivery.



Lifestyle Tips to Soothe Itchy Skin During Pregnancy

  • Use an unscented lotion or moisturiser
  • Wear loose clothes to reduce skin irritation
  • Wear garments made from natural fibres such as cotton
  • Take a cold bath
  • Place ice on your skin
  • Take an oatmeal bath once or twice each week
  • Avoid taking hot baths or showers, since these might dry up your skin
  • Don't go outdoors when it's the warmest outside


Impact on Sleep

Disrupted Sleep Patterns

Itching, particularly if strong or chronic, may make it difficult for a pregnant person to fall or remain asleep. This might result in frequent awakening and difficulties returning to sleep after scratching.

Sleep Fragmentation

Constant itching and the need to scratch throughout the night may disrupt sleep, resulting in inadequate rest. Disrupted sleep may worsen exhaustion and make it more difficult to deal with other pregnancy-related issues.

Anxiety and Stress

Constant itching may cause worry and stress, which may impair sleep even more. Itching-related stress, along with anxiety about underlying reasons, may lead to insomnia or decreased sleep quality.


Impact on Quality of Life

Physical Discomfort

Persistent itching may cause irritation, pain, and even skin damage from repetitive scratching. This physical pain may have an impact on general well-being, leading to irritation or emotional anguish.

Reduced Productivity

Lack of sleep and itching may lower energy levels and cognitive functioning, making it difficult to complete daily duties or concentrate on activities. This may have an influence on employment, domestic chores, and social relationships.

Emotional Wellbeing

Chronic pain and lack of sleep may exacerbate irritation and mood fluctuations. Physical pain and mental stress may have an impact on relationships with partners, family, and friends.

Impact on Pregnancy Experience

Severe and chronic itching might divert attention away from enjoyable pregnancy experiences, leading to emotions of frustration or discontent. It may also raise worries about the baby's health, particularly if the itching is caused by a disorder such as cholestasis, which needs medical attention.

Skin Health

Scratching due to itchiness may harm the skin's integrity, resulting in secondary infections, rashes, or scars. In certain circumstances, scratching may exacerbate the itching cycle, resulting in a maddening circle of pain.

Safe Skin Care Ingredient Alternatives

Here are a few options for properly managing pregnancy's most prevalent and unpleasant skin issues.

Acne and Hyperpigmentation

If you're prone to breakouts during pregnancy, there are safe alternatives you could turn to. Glycolic acid is among the most effective. However, please note that high doses of glycolic acid may not be safe during pregnancy. It is best to consult your dermatologist before incorporating any new products into your regimen. Azelaic acid is another ingredient you could consider as it can help with smoothening fine lines, brightening your face and helping with hyperpigmentation.

Experts recommend glycolic, and azelaic acid as safe acne treatments during pregnancy. Topical benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are good options as well.

Mature-Looking Skin And Wrinkles

Topical antioxidants, such as vitamin C, may safely promote the vitality of your skin by protecting it from harm and retaining collagen.

Other topical antioxidants to use in your skincare products include ingredients such as vitamin E, green tea and resveratrol.

It is important to note that oral resveratrol supplements should not be used when pregnant. It's advisable to see your doctor before taking any supplements, particularly if you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Dry Skin With Stretch Marks

There's no question that pregnancy demands a lot from your body, so if your baby-to-be wants extra water at any time, they'll take it from you. This, along with hormonal fluctuations, may cause dry skin.

In addition to drinking enough water, moisturising products containing coconut oil, cocoa butter, peptides, and hyaluronic acid (HA) may help your skin stay hydrated. When it comes to stretch marks, one technique to avoid them is to moisturise prone areas often to allow the skin to stretch naturally as your bump (and baby) grows.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is one of the most essential things you can do to prevent wrinkles and skin cancer. The key challenge, however, is how to properly preserve your skin while pregnant.

The safety of some chemical sunscreens, such as oxybenzone, is still debated, so opt for mineral-based sunscreens that protect the skin by causing UV rays to bounce off completely.

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are mineral-based sunscreen components. Don't forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat for some trendy shade.

When Should You Call Your Doctor About Itching During Pregnancy?

While some itchy skin is typical during pregnancy, itching with other symptoms is abnormal. Call your doctor immediately if you suffer from any of the following symptoms:
  • Itching in the palms or soles: These are common symptoms of cholestasis, which is a pregnancy problem
  • Itching is associated with nausea: This is a common cholestasis sign
  • Jaundice: If your skin becomes yellowish, it might be another sign of cholestasis
  • A Rash: A rash may indicate a variety of conditions, but an itchy, bumpy rash on your tummy is most likely due to pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP). It's a common ailment among first-time mothers and those carrying multiples, but it's harmless. However, any rash should be examined to ensure safety.


Post-Pregnancy Itching

Itching after pregnancy is a common occurrence that may be caused by a variety of factors as your body heals after delivery and readjusts hormonally and physiologically. Itching after pregnancy may affect several parts of the body, including the belly, breasts, and perineum, and can range from minor to severe.

Stretching and Healing of Skin

Possible causes of post-pregnancy itching include stretching and healing of the skin.

During pregnancy, your skin expands to accommodate the developing baby, and as your body returns to its pre-pregnancy state, the skin may feel tight or itchy.
Stretch marks (striae gravidarum) are prevalent during and after pregnancy. These markings may cause irritation as the skin heals and rebounds.

Hormonal Changes

Hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate drastically after delivery, which may cause dry, itchy skin, particularly as your body adapts back to its usual state.

Postpartum hormonal fluctuations may also cause eczema or psoriasis in people who are prone to them, both of which cause irritation.

Dry Skin

Pregnancy causes the blood volume to rise, affecting the fluid balance. This may cause your skin to dry out after you give birth.
Colder weather and frequent hand washing, particularly if you're caring for a baby, may worsen dryness and cause itching.

Postpartum Sweating

Many women report increased perspiration in the days and weeks after childbirth. This might cause a rash or discomfort in regions where perspiration gathers, resulting in itching. This is often known as "postpartum night sweats" and may be especially unpleasant at night.

Infection or Skin Condition

A rash may indicate a skin disorder or condition requiring medical treatment, such as an infected episiotomy or C-section incision. Itching at the site of a surgical incision might occur as part of the healing process.

Candida Or Yeast Infections

Candida or yeast infections are common after childbirth, particularly if you are nursing and taking antibiotics or had a vaginal delivery.

Pruritic Urticarial Papules And Plaques Of Pregnancy (Puppp)

A rash and itching that develops during pregnancy and may linger after delivery.


Allergic Reactions

Some postpartum itching may be caused by an allergic response to medication, lotions, soaps, or even new laundry detergents designed for baby garments.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding may also induce skin changes such as dryness and inflammation in the breasts and nipples, which can cause itching. Engorgement, cracked or painful nipples, and yeast infections (such as thrush) may worsen the pain.


Managing Postpartum Itching

Stay Hydrated And Moisturise

  • Keep your skin moisturised to avoid and relieve dry skin. To prevent irritation, use soft lotions, oils, or creams that are unscented
  • Drink lots of water to remain hydrated and promote good skin

Cool Compresses

  • Itching caused by dryness or oedema may be relieved temporarily by using a cold compress or a cold bath

Gentle Skin Care

  • Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and avoid taking hot showers, which may further dry out your skin.
  • Avoid scratching to avoid additional skin irritation, which may result in infections or scars.

Breast Care

  • To relieve itching in the breasts and nipples caused by nursing, use lanolin ointment, breast pads, or a warm compress. Keep your skin clean and dry to avoid fungal infections.
  • If your nipples become cracked or uncomfortable, use the appropriate latch technique and look for indications of thrush (painful, itchy, burning sensations).

Medication

  • If you suspect a rash or skin condition, such as a yeast infection or PUPPP, see your doctor. They could suggest topical treatments or antifungal medicines.
  • Over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams may relieve moderate itching, but they should only be used under the supervision of a doctor to prevent any risks to nursing.

Monitor For Infection

  • If the itching is centred on a healing incision (C-section or episiotomy), make sure the site is clean and dry. Contact your doctor if you see any redness, warmth, or pus.

Manage stress

  • Deep breathing, yoga, or a mild stroll outdoors may all help to relieve tension, which can exacerbate itching or pain.

Seek Medical Advice

  • If your itching is chronic, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., jaundice, severe rash, or pain), you should see your doctor. Pregnancy cholestasis, for example, may occasionally persist after birth, necessitating medical attention.

Although post-pregnancy itching might be challenging, it is usually treatable with adequate treatment. Keeping your skin moisturised, monitoring hormonal and physical changes, and treating any infections or skin disorders will help to alleviate pain. If the itching is severe or chronic, it is always advisable to see a doctor to rule out any underlying diseases that may need treatment.


FAQs on How to Handle Itchy Skin During Pregnancy?


  1. Is itching skin an indication of pregnancy?
    While itchy skin may be a pregnancy symptom, it is not one of the early signs of pregnancy, like painful breasts, morning sickness, or exhaustion.
  2. Is itching during pregnancy stronger at night?
    Yes, itchy skin caused by pregnancy tends to worsen at night. Since you don't have environmental distractions as you're lying in bed, you may become focused on the itch.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Dr Priti Karde Shringarpure, Dermatologist, Cosmetologist and Trichologist, Mumbai

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