What causes itching all over the body during pregnancy?

Itching is common in pregnancy. Usually it’s thought to be caused by raised levels of certain chemicals in the blood, such as hormones. Later, as your bump grows, the skin of your tummy (abdomen) is stretched and this may also feel itchy.

When should I be worried about itching during pregnancy?

If you’re worried about your itching, or if you have severe itching, it’s important to see your midwife or doctor. Obstetric cholestasis (OC), also called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, is a serious liver disorder that affects a small number of pregnant women, usually in the last 3 months of pregnancy.

How serious is cholestasis of pregnancy?

Cholestasis may increase the risks for fetal distress, preterm birth, or stillbirth. A developing baby relies on the mother’s liver to remove bile acids from the blood; therefore, the elevated levels of maternal bile cause stress on the baby’s liver.

What is the treatment of itching during pregnancy?

To soothe intense itching, your pregnancy care provider may recommend: Taking a prescription drug called ursodiol (Actigall, Urso, Urso Forte), which helps to lower the level of bile in your blood. Other medications to relieve itching may also be an option. Soaking itchy areas in cool or lukewarm water.

Why am I so itchy in my third trimester?

Severe itching in the third trimester might be caused by intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (IPC) or obstetric cholestasis. This condition occurs in response to impaired liver function, possibly due to pregnancy hormones, or changes to the digestive process.

Is delivery by 37 weeks necessary for cholestasis of pregnancy?

Given the increased risk of stillbirth in the setting of ICP, induction of labor is often recommended at 37 weeks of gestation to balance the risk of iatrogenic preterm delivery against the risk of fetal mortality.

Why does my skin itch at night during pregnancy?

Intense itching is the main symptom of cholestasis of pregnancy. There is no rash. Most women feel itchy on the palms of their hands or the soles of their feet, but some women feel itchy everywhere. The itching is often worse at night and may be so bothersome that you can’t sleep.

What does cholestasis itch feel like?

How do you know when itching is serious?

See your doctor or a skin disease specialist (dermatologist) if the itching: Lasts more than two weeks and doesn’t improve with self-care measures. Is severe and distracts you from your daily routines or prevents you from sleeping. Comes on suddenly and can’t be easily explained.

What causes severe itching in pregnancy?

Some women experience a very severe itching in late pregnancy. The most common cause of this is cholestasis, a common liver disease that only happens in pregnancy.

Is an itchy stomach an early sign of pregnancy?

A rash could be a sign of many things, but an itchy, bumpy rash that appears on your belly is likely a sign of pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP), Wider says. It’s a pretty common condition in first-time moms and those carrying multiples, but it’s benign.

Why are itchy feet a thing during pregnancy?

Itchy feet can be caused by a variety of hormonal and immunological changes that are normal during pregnancy. There are options to relieve your discomfort at home, such as oatmeal baths, cold packs, and moisturizers.

Is it normal to have itchy skin while pregnant?

Yes, mild itching during pregnancy is normal in most cases. It’s also common – about 20 percent of pregnant women have itchy skin. You may feel especially itchy around your belly and breasts as your skin stretches to accommodate their increased size. Dry skin and hormonal changes may also contribute.

What causes itching all over the body during pregnancy? Itching is common in pregnancy. Usually it’s thought to be caused by raised levels of certain chemicals in the blood, such as hormones. Later, as your bump grows, the skin of your tummy (abdomen) is stretched and this may also feel itchy. When should I be…