Itching, dry skin is a common complaint among pregnant women. Changes in the body's production of hormones, as well as the stretching of the skin to accomodate the growing baby, can cause unpleasant and annoying itching that may be occasional or constant. Learning the causes and cures of this itching can take some of this unnecessary burden away from a pregnant woman's body as it copes with many other changes and stressors.
Xerosis, a Common Cause
Xerosis is simply the technical term for dry skin, but it is the most common cause of itchiness during pregnancy. According to Babies Online, the best way to treat xerosis is by drinking lots of water daily and using a moisturizing lotion on the body every day, particularly on the itchy areas.
Women's Health Care Topics recommends a mild cleanser (moisturizing if possible) and a warm shower. Hot water can dry the skin out even more, so warm water is easier on the skin. Follow up after every shower or bath with a moisturizer. Apply it while the skin is still damp for best results, since this helps the skin absorb more moisture and delay itching for longer. Use a lotion or cream containing cocoa butter to relieve the itching caused by stretching on the abdomen, which will also help fight stretch marks.
Liver Causes
In about 2% of pregnancies, the liver can play a role in itchy skin. An abnormality called intrahepatic cholestasis can occur during pregnancy, where the bile salts of the liver pool in the hands and feet and cause intense itchiness. For some women, the constant scratching can result in small tears in the skin, which should be treated against infection.
In some cases, doctors will induce early labor for those with severe symptoms of cholestasis. Once the baby is delivered, symptoms will begin to ease almost immediately. In the meantime, moisturizer and a greater daily intake of water can earn some relief. Try an emollient moisturizer with antioxidants like vitamin E for best results.
PUPP, a Serious Cause
Pregnant women who develop itching with large patches of bumps or a rash should contact their physician as soon as possible. These symptoms could indicate a more serious cause of itching during pregnancy called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques, or PUPP. These rashes may appear on the stomach, thighs, and arms. While it will not harm mother or baby, PUPP can cause severe itching and discomfort, and should be treated by a physician.
Moisturizer will help treat this condition, as will a warm oatmeal bath, but prescribed topical agents work best against PUPP. Severe cases might also be treated by oral steroids, prescribed by an obstetrician or dermatologist. Forunately, the rash and itching will disappear about one week after delivery, and is not likely to return during subsequent pregnancies.
Others Causes & Concerns
Bumps on the feet, legs, hands, and/or arms could be an indication of another condition called prurigo. This condition is harmless to both mother and baby, but can be as annoying as a cluster of bug bites. Treatments can include calomine lotion, oatmeal baths, and moisturizers that contain shea butter, cocoa butter, aloe vera or vitamin e. Consult a physician if this condition is suspected.
Even more rare, an itchy rash can transform into lesions that look like small blisters, according to Women's Health Care Topics. Called pemphigoid gestationis, the blistering rashes might appear on the belly, arms, or legs. This condition usually appears in the third trimester and it can cause harm to a developing baby. Seek immediate medical attention if such symptoms develop.
References:
- Babies Online. "Baby, Pregnancy, and Parenting Information: Itching During Pregnancy."
- March of Dimes. "Changes During Pregnancy: Skin Changes."
- WebMD. "Pregnancy Skin Care: Get That Glow!"
- Women's Health Care Topics. "Itching During Pregnancy."
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Stephanie Haddad - Stephanie Haddad is a freelance writer living in the Boston area with her husband, their dog, and their new daughter. She focuses her work ...
