As your pregnant tummy gets bigger it is natural to experiencing itching and discomfort of the skin. This typically starts around week 28 but it can occur much sooner due to rise in hormone levels which boost the blood supply to the skin. This brings also the famous ‘pregnancy glow’ however it can also cause sensitivity and itching.
Itching is usually harmless, although annoying, and can be soothed by these tried and tested remedies.
What to look out for with itching skin in pregnancy
Whilst most skin irritation and itchiness in pregnancy is normal and harmless it is important to watch out for a more severe discomfort with a noticeable rash. This could signal Polymorphic Eruption of Pregnancy, which will need medical attention. Pregnancy may also trigger eczema especially if your immune system is lowered. Seek advice if any areas of skin become broken or sore due to scratching or if you notice any signs of infection. Severe itching especially if worse on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet need to be reported to your doctor as this can indicate a liver disorder, especially if accompanied by a yellowing of the skin.
Otherwise pregnancy itching is really just that, the reaction of your skin to the stretches and changes of your body shape.
Tips for dealing with itchy skin in pregnancy
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize …. Keeping your skin well-nourished with a light emollient will help to keep it supple and less itchy. Use a natural moisturizer suitable for pregnancy and apply regularly as often as you feel you need it. Coconut oil is ideal for this and can be added to your bath or to wet skin after your shower (be careful not to slip as the oil will leave a residue on the surface of the bath and shower).
- An oatmeal bath can be very soothing for dry itchy skin; see our recipe here to make your own oatmeal bath.
- Hydrate from the inside out – drink plenty of water and keep your body hydrated. See Baby Arabia’s tips to stay hydrated in pregnancy.
- Choose natural and light fibers to dress in and layers so that you can stay cool.
- Cool baths and showers are a great way of cooling and soothing your skin if you become over warm which exacerbates itching.