What some women find helpful for itchy skin
Heat rashes and itchy skin are a common complaint for many women during pregnancy. They are usually caused by an increase in the body's blood volume, as well as increased sweating and hormonal changes. Many women will develop a generalised 'pregnancy rash' all over their belly and different areas of their body. This can sometimes be referred to as 'PUPPS' (Pruritic Urticarial Papules and Plaques of Pregnancy) and is annoying, but normal, and will go away after the baby is born. If the rash is severe and ongong, you may need to see your caregiver to rule out other possible causes (such as scabies, eczema or a fungal infection).
You may be more susceptible to itchy skin if your skin is dry (particularly in the winter months). As the pregnancy continues, the stretching and growing of your skin can aggravate itchy sensations.
NOTE: Persistent itching, particularly after 20 weeks of pregnancy may be a sign of your liver not functioning well. This is called
cholestatic jaundice of pregnancy or 'cholestasis'. Cholestasis is diagnosed with blood tests (called 'liver function tests' and 'bile salts'). It is generally recommended that you have these tests done as a precaution, if you have constant itching during pregnancy. This is particularly so if you are itchy on your palms and/or the soles of your feet.
What some women find helpful for itchy skin
There are a few things that pregnant women find helpful when experiencing itchy skin.
Remedies and treatments may include: