Is it normal to have itching during pregnancy?
Yes, mild itching during pregnancy is normal in most cases. About 20% of women have itchy skin during pregnancy, especially around the abdomen and breasts, as the skin stretches to accommodate growth. (Even itchy nipples during pregnancy can be normal.)
Dry skin and hormonal changes can also contribute to additional itching. In winter, dry heat (especially from heaters and radiators) can also cause itching.
Some skin conditions, such as eczema, can worsen during pregnancy, although some women notice that their eczema improves. With psoriasis, however, many women report less severe symptoms during pregnancy, while few find that their psoriasis worsens.
How to prevent itching during pregnancy?
Although you can hardly prevent it completely, these tips can minimize itching during pregnancy:
- Avoid bathing in hot water - Hot water can dry out the skin and make itching worse, opt for warm water instead. We also recommend using a mild, fragrance-free soap and patting yourself dry with a towel to avoid scratching the skin.
- Moisturize your Skin - Apply an unscented lotion or cream after bathing. We recommend using Almond Care especially in the last months of pregnancy, it contains cocoa butter and vitamin E to give your skin deep hydration that repairs, softens and regenerates the skin.
- Stay in cool places - Try to avoid being outdoors for long periods because heat can make the itching worse.
- Use a humidifier in your bedroom - Especially in winter, it can help your skin from drying out by improving the humidity of the environment.
- Wear comfortable clothing - Loose cotton clothing prevents skin irritation.
How to relieve itchy skin during pregnancy
First of all try not to scratch because it can further irritate your skin and increase the risk of skin infections. If you're itchy due to dry, stretched skin, these simple steps may provide some relief:
- Apply cold – Place an ice pack or cold, wet compress on the itchy areas for five to ten minutes, or until the itching goes away.
- Moisturize your skin – Lotions and creams that are fragrance-free are best. Pure aloe vera gel applied directly to itchy areas can also provide temporary relief. We recommend incorporating Aloe Hydrating Therapy into your daily routine from the first months of pregnancy to hydrate and provide elasticity to your skin to relieve itching and prevent stretch marks.
- Take a warm oatmeal bath - You can buy commercially prepared oatmeal baths at drugstores or online.
- Apply medications before moisturizing – Talk to your healthcare provider about topical anti-itch medications that are available without a prescription, including calamine lotion. While most of these medications are safe during pregnancy, it is best to review them first with your obstetrician or midwife.
When to call your healthcare provider about itching during pregnancy
- If you develop a new rash during pregnancy
- If you have a skin condition that is worsening.
- If you feel very itchy, especially on your hands and feet, but you don't have a rash.
While most pregnancy itching is normal, some conditions that cause itchy skin can affect your baby's well-being and require special monitoring or treatment.