How to Deal With Itchy Skin During Pregnancy?

Itchy skin during pregnancy is a common symptom. As your skin stretches, it is normal to experience some itching. Staying cool, wearing loose clothes, and applying moisturiser or olive oil on the itchy area are good first steps to relieve itch. However, itchy skin during pregnancy can sometimes be a sign of a severe health condition. Some conditions like intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (PEP), also known as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), can cause intense itching. These are severe conditions that can affect your baby. You will require medical attention if you suffer from any of these conditions. However, itching caused by stretching of the skin can be cured naturally. Read on to understand about causes of itching, how to treat them naturally, and when to see a doctor.

What Causes Itching During Pregnancy?

Most women will experience itchy skin during pregnancy, especially on and around their belly and breasts, because the skin in these areas undergoes many changes. Occasionally, slight itchiness is normal, but intense itching of the legs, abdomen, and arms can indicate that your body requires attention. Some women may also experience vaginal itching in pregnancy; this may require medical intervention. Additionally, sometimes rashes appear with itching during pregnancy.

Itching is ideally not considered an early pregnancy symptom. Rashes usually appear later during the pregnancy, and some rashes may stay until after your baby is born. If intense or prolonged itching occurs during pregnancy, consult your doctor immediately.

Here are some causes of itchy skin during pregnancy:

• Stretching skin

During the first pregnancy or one with multiples, the skin tends to stretch more than usual.

• Dryness

Hormonal changes can lead to itchy, flaky, and dry skin during pregnancy.

• Perfumes or fabrics

Sometimes, itchy skin may have nothing to do with pregnancy. External things like clothing fabric or perfumes could cause it.

• Hormones

You can blame hormones for whatever uncomfortable things happen during pregnancy. It could be from morning sickness, bloating, swollen feet, or itchy skin; blame it on the hormonal changes your body is going through.

• Cholestasis

This condition causes the build-up of bile acids in the blood, leading to itchiness. This is a severe condition; if left untreated, it can harm your baby.

• Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP)

This is an itchy rash associated with stretch marks that occur in late pregnancy.

• Prurigo

These crusty and itchy bumps on the arms/legs/abdomen can appear during any trimester.

Natural Treatment Options for Itching in Pregnancy

Itchy skin during pregnancy could be due to various reasons. Fortunately, there are ways to help alleviate itchiness using natural remedies. This includes:

• Change perfumes or detergents

Avoid using perfumes or detergents with strong chemicals. Use mild perfumes and soaps. You can also consider making your natural perfume using natural products like rose, jasmine, and sandalwood.

• Wear natural fabrics

Avoid fabrics that irritate your skin; this will help prevent heat-related rashes.

• Oatmeal bath

Oatmeal’s natural anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties help deal with itchiness and skin inflammation. Aventhramides, the potent antioxidant compound in oats, is responsible for soothing itchy and irritated skin.

• Aloe Vera Gel

This is a time-tested remedy for treating several skin problems and infections. Packed with Phyto-components, aloe vera gels exhibit anti-inflammatory, soothing, and cooling properties to lessen itching and dry skin.

• Coconut Oil

 The lauric acid content in coconut oil is an effective anti-inflammatory agent that calms itchy skin. Additionally, coconut oil's natural moisturising properties help heal common skin issues.

• Essential Oils

Essential oils, such as rose geranium and juniper oil, possess strong anti-inflammatory and anti-itch properties, which make them valuable in treating itchy skin. These oils also help to reduce inflammation and swelling.

• Lemon Juice

 Lemon juice possesses a soothing property that lessens itchy skin issues. It is also a good antimicrobial agent that wards off any germs present on the skin’s surface. The acidic quality of lemon juice balances the skin's pH, thereby reducing skin inflammation.

• Moisturiser

Both olive and coconut oils are soothing and moisturising. You can also use a concoction of shea butter and coconut oil to relieve itching.

• Calamine lotion

 You can opt for calamine lotion to alleviate itchy skin during pregnancy. This is harmless and doesn't have any side effects on your skin and baby. 

• Stay Hydrated

Remember to include electrolytes in your hydration. You can opt for coconut water or water with added electrolytes.

• Humidifier and a fan

Try to keep the air moist and cool in your room. This will moisturise your skin and give you relief from dry skin and rashes.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your itching does not improve or if it worsens, seek immediate medical intervention. Look out for below listed signs of following diseases that can cause itchy skin during pregnancy.

1. Cholestasis

Cholestasis is a liver disorder that causes a build-up of bile acids in the bloodstream. It can result in yellowish skin, but often no rash. Doctors rely on a blood test and medical history for diagnosis. Over-the-counter anti-itch medications may not work, but prescription drugs can help. Delivering the baby is the ultimate solution and usually clears up the itch within days. However, due to the risks of stillbirth and preterm delivery, early induction or frequent monitoring may be necessary if diagnosed with cholestasis. The signs of cholestasis are as follows.

• jaundice 

• dark urine

• lack of appetite

• nausea

• light stool

• depression

2. PUPP

PUPPP is usually diagnosed through a skin examination. Rarely, a skin biopsy or blood work may be done. Delivering the baby is the ultimate cure. Moisturisers, antihistamines, steroid creams, and itch-relieving baths can help relieve symptoms. The symptoms of PUPP are as follows.

• rash comprising tiny, pimple-like flecks that spread from stretch marks and remain confined to the breast area

• blisters/eruptions around the rash

• feeling more itchy at night-time

3. Prurigo

Prurigo is treated with oral antihistamines and topical steroids. If you experience it during pregnancy, consult your OB or midwife. It may clear up after giving birth, but it can also last for weeks or months. The signs of prurigo are itchy, crusty bumps on the abdomen, arms, or legs.