Often, pregnant women tend to develop large patches and red, itchy bumps on their bellies. The condition entitled as polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, customarily begins during the third trimester. The skin condition may continue to exist for up to three months after the delivery but in moderation. The feeling of itchiness generally starts on the abdomen and eventually spreads on to the arms and legs. While some worry over the eruptions and find them abnormal, the itchy bumps do not cause harm to the baby.
Is it normal?
Usually, as the pregnancy bump turns bigger, the skin starts getting even itchier. Some might feel the urge to scratch all over, particularly around the belly and breasts. However, such condition is absolutely normal and commonly occurs around the second and third trimesters during the pregnancy.
What is the real cause for itchy skin?
Since, the abdomen stretches and stiffens up towards the maturing stages, the skin may feel itchy and dry. The changing hormones may persuade itchiness as well. However, if the severe prickle and itching extends to arms and legs, the condition may then be termed as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques during conception. For those not so aware, the PUPPP state leaves the expecting mother with red, itchy spots on the skin. The condition is not that serious and can be controlled by seeking doctor’s help. Generally, the red spots eradicate after the delivery and normalize the skin thereafter. Nevertheless, it must be noted that itchy skin can even be a symptom of certain allergy or cholestasis of pregnancy.
When should you take doctor’s recommendation?
Although many women get itchy skin during pregnancy, the situation may turn into an alarming one if feeling of prickle and itch turns severe and accompany light colored bowel movement. One must consult the doctor as soon as possible when symptoms such as loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, vomiting and significant color changes in urine are witnessed. They could very much be signs of cholestasis, an ailment that affects an individual’s liver and could also affect the health of the baby.
Quick tips to ease the pregnancy itchiness
1. Colloidal Oatmeal Bath
Easily available in grocery or drug stores, colloidal oatmeal may significantly contribute towards soothing the irritated skin. Though this is not the same oatmeal as you eat, the solution however comes packed in the similar way. To benefit from colloidal oatmeal bath, simply pour some oatmeal into lukewarm water and allow it to soak for a while. You can take up to 3 of such soaks every day.
2. No hot water
Ensure not to take a hot oatmeal bath or hot water for your shower. While you may feel persuaded to indulge in hot water as it relaxes the muscles that are exhausted, try to resist the urge. Not many would know but hot water actually strips the skin of its natural and essential oils. This eventually leads to an annoyed, itchy skin condition.
3. Moisturize
Moisturize your skin every day after taking a bath. This will not only maintain the pH balance of your skin but will also prevent your skin from drying up.
4. Avoid moisturizers with perfumes
Stay away from using moisturizers that embed perfumes. The added perfumes can irritate the skin even further.
5. Wear loose, natural fiber clothes
Apparels that are tight can actually chafe your skin and synthetic fabrics generally tend to trap dirt and sweat. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid clothes that are tight. You can wear loose clothes and breathable fabrics like cotton.
6. Do not scratch
Though it may seem impossible when you have red, itchy bumps all over your abdomen, but you need to ascertain not to scratch. Scratching may result into bleeding in places and cause pain to a considerable extent. You can rub the area but avoid scratching.
7. Drink plenty of water
Lastly, drink plenty of water. Drinking loads of water is indeed a golden rule of pregnancy. It is not only healthy for your baby and you, but is also helpful in trimming down the itchy skin condition. Aim at moisturizing from the inside and preventing dehydrated skin which will furthermore prevent several other health problems.
