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Itchy skin in pregnancy: causes

by Alivia Nyhan
Published: Last Updated on

Gestation is a stage characterized by essential changes in our bodies that are reflected externally and internally. The hormonal changes that prepare our body for the formation of a new life affect various aspects of our body, including, of course, the skin. Many women admit to suffering from itching during pregnancy that causes them a lot of discomforts. However, in most cases, this condition is completely normal and benign. At FastlyHealwe explains the causes of itchy skin in pregnancy and some solutions to alleviate the problem.

Tightening of the skin of the abdomen or breasts

Most women agree that itchy skin during pregnancy is mainly concentrated in the abdomen and the breasts. This is because both areas of the body are the ones that stretch the most during pregnancy, causing that if the dermis is not well hydrated, the skin fibers break, and the annoying stretch marks appear.

This stretch causes significant itching; however, the problem is solved simply with proper hydration. To soothe the itch and avoid the formation of stretch marks, it is recommended:

  • Use moisturizers by applying them to the abdomen and chest at least two times a day. Lotions with urea or for dehydrated skin are ideal, although, on the market, there are also special creams for pregnancy that will help you keep your skin in perfect condition.
  • Take a bath using oatmeal soap. This cereal is widely used to reduce itching and hydrate the skin, suitable for the entire pregnancy.
  • You can apply a little petroleum jelly to the affected areas, which will also promote hydration and help you have your skin in perfect condition.
  • Do not forget to consume at least 2 liters of water a day, as it is also essential to keep the skin hydrated inside.
  • Avoid scorching baths that can accentuate the discomfort, opt for warm or cool baths if the weather permits.
  • Wear cotton clothing, which will help you be more comfortable and prevent the itch from becoming accentuated.
  • In case the itching is significant, consult your doctor about using a cream to help calm it.

Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy

It is the most common dermatological condition of pregnancy, being especially frequent in first-time women who gain a lot of weight during pregnancy and in multiple pregnancies. The polymorphous eruption is characterized by intense itching that occurs at any time of the day with no apparent cause. Within weeks of manifesting this symptom, its characteristic sign appears as reddish and palpable lesions on the skin that gradually transform into defined marks that can become vesicles with the passage of weeks.

The places where they most commonly appear are the abdomen and hips and can also extend to the trunk and extremities. Despite the critical rash, the fetus does not suffer any damage from this condition, the cause of which is unknown, although it is believed that it could be linked to the stretching of the skin during pregnancy.

A dermatologist must diagnose this condition by analyzing the lesions through a biopsy. Treatment consists of topical corticosteroid creams. Only in exceptional cases, oral antihistamines can be recommended.

Itching of pregnancy

Often confused with the normal itching of pregnancy described above, itching of pregnancy is a different condition that usually occurs in the first or second trimester, characterized by intense itching in areas such as the arms or legs, which sometimes affects also to the abdomen.

The main difference is that there are skin lesions that feel elevated to the touch in addition to itching. They are usually 1 centimeter in diameter and are reddish and easy to see. It is believed that its appearance is due to increased estrogen levels during pregnancy.

Given these signs, a dermatologist should be visited for a timely diagnosis; generally, the problem usually disappears with the topical application of corticosteroid cream. This condition does not cause any harm to the fetus.

Herpes gestationis

less common condition than those mentioned above is herpes gestationis, which usually appears in women who have had other deliveries. The appearance of intense itching characterizes it followed, after a few weeks, by a rash that appears on the abdomen, around the navel, and then spreads to other body areas. It never affects the face or mucous membranes.

The lesions are like circular plaques but can later become vesicles. This condition arises between weeks 28 and 32 of pregnancy and can extend until postpartum. Like the other conditions, this is detected by dermatological studies and can be treated with topical corticosteroids and orally.

Herpes gestationis can cause retardation in the growth of the fetus and premature deliveries. In addition, the baby can be born with a slight rash that will disappear after a few weeks.

Folliculitis in pregnancy

With lesions very similar to acne, this condition usually manifests itself in the second trimester of pregnancy, causing itching and discomfort. Its causes are unknown. However, this condition does not affect the fetus and disappears with childbirth.

Despite this, and if the discomfort is significant, it can be treated using topical corticosteroids.

Intrahepatic cholestasis

Much less common than all the previous conditions, another cause of itchy skin in pregnancy is intrahepatic cholestasis, a condition that occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy characterized by itchy palms, the soles of the feet, and then spreads to the arms, legs, and face. When the expectant mother scratches, injuries occur due to this habit, making the condition more visible and annoying. In addition, a yellow discoloration of the skin may occur.

This condition occurs when, due to the increase in estrogens, bile stops flowing correctly into the intestines to digest food, which causes bile salts to accumulate in the blood giving rise to this pathology. A simple blood test will suffice to diagnose it, applying the treatment the specialist deems most appropriate.

The importance of consulting your doctor

The itchy skin during pregnancy is a condition that occurs commonly and, if lesions or other symptoms do not accompany it, can be easily treated with timely hydration and good skincare. However, when it comes to uncontrollable itching or the appearance of blemishes, marks or lesions, it is essential to consult a doctor to rule out any of the conditions mentioned above and apply the appropriate treatment.

This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.

If you want to read more articles similar to Itchy skin in pregnancy: causes, we recommend that you enter our Pregnancy and baby health category.

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